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Is your child screen-addicted?

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Electronics make our lives easier, but also give way to technology addiction – especially among children. 

More cases of electronic addiction are being reported in teens, children, and even toddlers. Studies show that too much technology can impact sleeping patterns, eating habits and mental health.  

Spot the signs
Your child may be addicted to technology if he:

  • Always talks about technology. There’s nothing wrong with having an interest in technology, but if your child only ever talks about the latest gizmos, or is easily distracted by digital devices, he may have a problem.
  • Gets moody without his favourite tech toy. Like drug addiction, device addiction also has withdrawal symptoms. Watch for signs of anxiety, irritability and depression when your child’s go-to gadget is out of reach. This may signal an unhealthy attachment to the device, especially if it's the only thing that can make him feel better.  
  • Lies to you. It's normal for your child to want some space and privacy, but if he hides away to play his favourite game or sneaks his iPad into bed without your knowledge, take action. Lying to get more screen time or secretly playing with his gadgets are red flags of digital addiction. 
  • Lacks interest in other activities. Your child used to love playing soccer and climbing trees, but now wants nothing to do with these activities. Experts warn that children who are reluctant to do other things or lose interest in games they once enjoyed may be hooked on technology. 
  • Performs poorly at school. As screen time goes up, grades and performance goes down. Research shows that even one additional hour spent in front of a computer, cellphone or television each day can affect academic performance and lead to poor grades. 

Break the addiction

  • Be an example. Children watch everything their parents do, and in most instances, mimic it. If your eyes are constantly glued to a screen, your child will normalise this behaviour – and follow suit. Whatever rules you set for him, follow them too. 
  • Set limits. Specify how much screen time your child can have each day and earmark times where technology is forbidden. Restrict electronics at meal times, when doing homework and an hour or two before bedtime. Write down the rules and place them on the fridge as a reminder. 
  • Use parental controls. Use this option whenever possible. This will make limiting screen-time and your life so much easier. 
  • Shift the focus. Many kids turn to technology out of boredom, but there are other ways to keep busy. Get your child involved in volunteer work or sports. Encourage him to get out in the real world, rather than being stuck in the fantasy world.  
  • Talk it through. Your child may be trying to tell you something. Children often use technology to break away from reality. Find out what’s going on in his life. He may be stressed or depressed.  
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