Today it is seen that mobile phones, tablets, laptops and other gaming consoles are part of childhood and it is taking up available time for sleep, studies, play and family time. Parents are perplexed in this situation. Nutrimind counselling centre, Tripunithura provides counselling for children having screen addiction.
Why is a counseling session needed?
Many parents say that children refuse to eat anything without watching videos on their mobile phone. Children show sudden outbursts when the mobile phone is taken away from them. During pandemic mobile and tablets were a necessity and this made the line between learning and leisure thin
Identifying the warning signs
Screen time alone doesn’t give the whole understanding of the story. Counsellors explained how screen time affects daily life. Parents are asked to understand the following signs shown by children.
- Lack interest in friends, outdoor play and hobbies.
- Headache, sleeplessness and tiredness
- Irritability and strong anger ,sadness when screens are restricted
- Hiding and lying about the use of mobile and other gaming devices.
If these signs are noted and it persists then , children need counselling support .
Understanding why children overuse screens.
There are many leading factors that make children get addicted to screens. Loneliness, boredom, academic pressure, lack of attention from parents at home, difficulty in making friends leads to more screen time. Parents ask “ what the screens are giving their child that they aren’t getting elsewhere?
Finding the answer to that question is more important than just taking away the mobile phone.
Practical strategies for families
The session at Nutrimind Counselling Centre, Tripunithura offers simple everyday steps.
Parents can start right away.
- Set clear and consistent rules: Family have a significant role in helping the child to reduce the usage of mobile phones and other devices. Fix screen free time l such as while studying, having meals and the hour before bed.
- Model the behaviour: Children copy what parents do. If parents use mobile while having meals , we can’t expect the children to put aside the device’s
- Offer alternatives : Arts, sports, reading, music, cycling and family outing gives children a different experience.
- Avoid sudden bans: Sudden ban of mobile phones and other gaming devices can lead to anger and other conflicts. It is better to gradually reduce the usage of these devices.
- Use screen as a reward: Treating screen time as a price makes it more desirable.
- Create screen free zones in school: Try not to use mobile phones in the dining room and bed rooms.
When to seek professional help
Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness or failure. If you notice a drop in school performance, sudden outbursts, withdrawal, irritability and sleep problems it is high time to reach out for professional help. Counsellors will find the root cause and help the child to build healthier routines and coping skills and also support the whole family.
A shared responsibility
Nutrimind Counselling Centre would like to remind that managing screen time use is a team effort which includes children,parents and the community. Technology should not be considered as an enemy, we should use it wisely. Technology can help in learning and creativity. The goal is balance,not the elimination of technology.
Counsellors at Nutrimind Counselling Centre, Tripunithura provides parents practical tools and reassures them that they are not alone.
Frequently asked questions
What are the threats of phone addiction among children ?
Strong anger, gets anxious when lacking access, less concentration, decline in academic performance and less bonding with family. These are some of the threats that cause mobile addiction.
How can children get rid of mobile phones and game console addiction ?
Indulging in real world activities like exercising, reading, and also by limiting the usage of social media and uninstalling games from mobile phones can help to reduce mobile phone usage.
What are the common signs of mobile phone addiction?
Reaching out for mobile phones always, wasting time by watching video and other social media. Using the phone to escape from boredom, loneliness and sadness.