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11 Ways To Decrease Phone Addiction In Kids

Dr Satish Kumar CR, Consultant - Clinical Psychology, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, shares eleven methods to break your kid's mobile addiction.

Written by Tavishi Dogra | Updated : April 27, 2023 6:27 PM IST

Explain

Children and teenagers don’t understand the potential dangers until it is explained. Likewise, they will be more motivated to participate in attempts to fix the problem if they are aware of it.

Set Limits On Screen Time

Ask children to play outside, read, draw, play sports or participate in hobbies.

Be A Role Model

Mobile phone addiction is an adult problem too. Unless adults show their children healthy control over phone usage, children will be hostile towards the perceived hypocrisy of adults.  Also Read - Belly Fat: 3 Foods to Avoid for a Flatter Tummy!

Monitor

In the conversation with children, ask them what their likes and dislikes are about the media they use and what message they receive from them.

Encourage Family And Peer Group Activities

Motivate them to spend time with family during meals, watch movies, spend time talking etc. and also motivate them to explore other new hobbies and activities with their peer group. Also Read - 10 Signs Of An Unhealthy Heart You Should Never Ignore

Take Away Their Phone At Night

They will learn to go to bed without it. This will help them to learn to sleep without associating it with screen time.

Not To Use Phones As Emotional Pacifiers

Most parents use technology devices to distract their children while they are busy. This could help children stay calm, but it should not be the only way to calm them down.

Seek Professional Help If Required

Your child's addiction to their phone might be difficult to witness, but it is crucial to have patience with them. They'll probably need to go through this process to learn how to stop children from using their phones excessively and to find psychologist support.