Parental Guide To Reform Digital Junkies

'Teens and their addiction for screen'- that's something which worries every parent whose kids are growing up in this digital world. I, as a parent, find myself in the dilemma whether I should really take my child completely off technology and make him feel tech-handicap in the future or should limit his too much usage of gadgets so that it doesn't impair his development.

So here is what parents like me must try at their home to raise a low-gadget child-

Restrain yourself to give your child a dedicated gadget/device of his own to avoid interference with your own device and for your own convenience. Having to borrow your device will potentially reduce his screen time.

Limit the number of Apps that your child is allowed to install in the device. Once a new App is installed, make sure to take the test of the same to assess the appropriateness of the content that your child would come across while using it. I personally recommend using any suitable App that gives you parental control of the device with which you may restrict certain content to be displayed.

Try noticing whether there is a specific time slot when your child is hooked to the gadgets. If yes, break this pattern and engage him in some creative activity he/she loves. It effectively worked in my case. Everyday in the evening, I call my son to help me with dinner since he is fond of cooking and he takes pride when his opinion is considered with ingredients etc. Just a simple exercise and great relief!

Make your children aware of the consequences of addictive effects and let them realise themselves how their own behaviour had been deteriorating since they are glued to gizmos. Take them in confidence and help them understand that less time on screen simply means lesser time absorbing inappropriate content. I believe self-realisation sometimes can do what an advice cannot.

We all know that children imitate parents. The easiest way to limit media use by children is to control your own urge to be constantly online. Remind yourself why setting these limits are important for mental and physical wellness of your child & be a good role model by disconnecting your devices. 

The exposure to digital information is revolutionising every walk of life, but screens can draw these children from life's real pleasures. Technology is a positive force for learning and connecting, but not at the cost of losing someone's well-being. All the parents who wish for freedom from Digital Heroin must fix up a Digital Detox Routine for their family as early as possible because the older your kids are, the harder it is to enforce limits.

This post is a part of the Independence Blog Train hosted by Foodietweeter and Prettylilthingss1 and should not be repurposed, republished or used otherwise. I nominate Sanjivni to do the next post and take this train ahead.

Good Parenting Tips

Yesterday we spent Mother's Day with loads of enthusiasm. While we talked about everything possible related to motherhood, I introspected what should we all as moms or as parents should do to raise happy kids. I am sharing few simple tips for being good parents for our lovely kids...

Spend Quality Time

Talk , read & play games with your child for a few hours everyday, however busy you may be. Give Proper Attention to him when its needed. Turn off the television or put the newspaper down when your child wants to speak to you. Avoid other activity when the child has something important to tell you.

 Build up a Healthy Relationship 

Let your child know and believe that you are interested and involved with him in whatever he does and that you are always there to help him/her. Don’t Tower over your Child. Get down to his level while speaking to him. Create a very loving atmosphere at home and let your child feel the warmth of the family.

Be Role Models

Do the right things. Behave just in the manner you want your child to behave. How can you expect politeness from your child if you are aggressive & speak rudely to him or anyone else in front of him?

Don’t Over-expect

Avoid Comparison with Siblings and Friends, because comparisons only induce a negative feeling and low self esteem in the child. All individuals are not the same. So don’t expect your child to score as much as his siblings or his friends. He may be better in other skills. 

Be Positive

When the child does not perform well, instead of saying “ you can never achieve”, say –”I’m sure you can do better next time.” Never Underestimate the capabilities of your child. The words like “You won’t understand”, “You are just a dumb” induce an inferiority complex in the child which can be a great hindrance in his growth and progress.

Avoid Hot and Cold Treatment 

Some times it is seen that parents react in a different manner at similar situations . Their reactions should be balanced.

Never Bribe or Blackmail 

Spend time with them to show that you care. Toys, gifts and chocolates can’t replace the precious moments that you can share with him.

The kids will love and respect the parents if we be lil careful of our behaviour too. Do give it a try..