Our generation is afflicted by a pervasive myopia pandemic, which is linked to kids’ screen addiction. Doctors have dubbed this ailment “digital craving,” drawing comparisons between it and a desire for sweets. They say that screen addiction exacerbates the problem by causing dopamine spikes in the brain.

The younger generation’s behaviours, diets, and even mental health are being profoundly influenced by their increased screen usage, especially on social media. In many homes, this has turned into a divisive topic. Experts have, however, offered recommendations on how to lessen kids’ screen addiction. These techniques call for perseverance and regularity. The following advice was provided by reputable sites like WebMD and NPR.

1. Make it challenging to access

Reducing screen time can be accomplished by setting up microenvironments in which the use of devices is restricted to particular rooms of the house. Dopamine Nation author and Stanford University psychiatrist Dr. Anna Lembke suggests setting up a specific space for using electronics. A family-wide digital detox that involves periodic gadget withdrawals can prove advantageous.

2. Sleep areas devoid of screens

The secret to getting a good night’s sleep in the bedroom is to avoid screens. Electronics in the bedroom frequently disrupt a restful night’s sleep, which makes it more difficult to maintain energy levels during the day. Experts advise removing screens from sleeping areas, not using them during meals, and turning them off an hour before bed.

3. Steer clear of personal electronics

Experts recommend against providing kids their own smartphones or tablets. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health professor Dr. Steven Gortmaker advises parents to interact with their kids face-to-face rather than through technology.

4. Take up new routines

Instead of completely eliminating screen time, neuroscientist Yevgenia Kozorovitskiy of Northwestern University advises finding more meaningful substitutes. She carefully selects challenging and mentally stimulating games that call for cooperation and strategic thinking for her own kids. She says that these kinds of things can help people develop sophisticated language and social abilities.

5. Share a watch

When your child is using a screen, try to spend some time with them. Being conscious of what they’re viewing helps avoid unpleasant shocks, particularly if a show or game turns out to be less kid-friendly than anticipated. Discussing the subject while watching together also creates debate points.

6. Disallow screens during playdates

Children must have screen-free time when interacting with classmates. Establishing a rule in the home that prohibits using devices during playdates helps promote lively conversation. When your child is visiting another parent’s house, you can even ask them to abide by this guideline.

7. Set a good example

Youngsters are heavily impacted by the actions of their parents. Set screen time limitations for your children and set your own as an example. Prioritise family time above screen time, be conscious of how you use screens, and turn off gadgets when not in use.

8. Assess the amount of time spent on screens

It’s critical to incorporate pauses for physical activity into a child’s daily schedule if they must use screens for studying. Make sure you have a plan in place for putting electronics away after school so you can do other things.

9. Make sensible objectives

Establish reasonable goals at first if your kids spend a lot of time in front of devices. Instead of immediately lowering screen time to the suggested one to two hours per day, start by halving their present screen usage.

10. Remain attentive

Try to give your kids your whole focus when you spend face-to-face time with them after work or school. For them, these genuine connection moments are priceless.

11. Promote outdoor pursuits

Playing outside or going for a stroll naturally releases endorphins, which improve mood and physical health. The potential harm that screens may have to children’s eyesight can be mitigated by encouraging them to spend time outside, particularly while they are focussing on far-off objects.

In conclusion, cutting down on kids’ screen time involves both limiting technology use and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Although children’s screen time may be impacted by peer pressure, the importance of a supportive home environment cannot be emphasised.