Science and technology has made our lives more comfortable and easier. We can talk live with the distant relatives, friends and people around the globe over the phone. The availability of network connectivity has turned the entire world into a small village, enabling people to communicate with their relatives and friends irrespective of which part of the world they come from.
On the flip side, the use of smartphones have also made people aloof and antisocial. Children have been the hardest hit by this new network connectivity getting them hooked to the gadgets. It has brought us face-to-face with the fact that young children are so dependent on the mobile phone that they can't stay away from it for even a few minutes. Several parents are now worried wondering what they can do to keep their children away from the addiction of mobile phones. The following tips will help reduce your child’s phone addiction.
Keep your child engaged
With shrinking play spaces, more and more children are forced to stay indoors. As a result, children spend their time playing with toys. Some also get hooked to gadgets like smartphones, which also double up as entertainment devices. To prevent this from happening, take your child out to the park or a nearby playground to spend time running and playing. If that is not an option, enroll him in a neighborhood sports club, or take him on regular walks to explore the wonders of nature. A growing awareness of the environment could spark his curiosity and capture his imagination.
Restrict the use
As smartphones are now an inseparable part of our lives, it is difficult to keep them away from children. Sooner or later, your child may begin using your mobile phone but you wouldn't want her to get hooked to the device. Therefore, make your child understand that she can use your smartphone provided that you have discussed the rules around its usage. Discourage its use during mealtimes, study hours, bedtime, or when it's time to go out and play.
Set passwords
It is not always possible for you to be around your child to dissuade him/her from using a smartphone. In such a situation, technology can come to your rescue. Set a password on your phone so that your child cannot use it while you are away.
Set a good example
Many parents spend a lot of time on their smartphones. In such cases, telling children to not use the mobile may not help, as they are bound to follow in their parents' footsteps. So, be a good role model for your child by limiting your mobile phone usage. However, if your profession demands high mobile usage, explain it to your child.
Bond with your child
Although most parents lead very busy lives, it is important to take the time out for children. Playing board games or engaging your child along with you in activities such as cooking or gardening will make her feel valued and useful. Thus she will stop using the smartphone to escape from loneliness. You can also encourage your child to pursue hobbies like doing simple science experiments, listening to music, reading, creative writing, art, or painting.
(With inputs from Agencies)
