The main issue we have been facing since the pandemic is increased screen time. 

Screen time is increasing in all age groups, but in this article we will be addressing the kids' problems.

Is it turning into an addiction, a habit, or a way of life? 

Nowadays, almost every small child understands how to use a cellphone. Some kids even have their own social media accounts on sites like Facebook and Instagram.

The parents were already struggling to keep their children from using mobile devices, which had become an integral part of their academic lives. 

I have seen a case  where parents were worried that their 14-years old boy was becoming a mobile addict because whenever they used to stop him from using his phone, he used to get aggressive. 

since this article is for tips. We will not get into a discussion, but let's see if these few tips help you.

1. Avoid exposing kids below 6 to 7years old to mobile apps and social media.

2. Avoid encouraging toddlers to watch cartoons or make them interact on video calls on mobile.

3. If your toddlers or preschoolers have already been exposed to mobile devices, limit the number of hours they are exposed to screen time.

4. Avoid associating mealtime with TV . You can play audio stories ,songs while eating.

5. Show patience if they throw tantrums . New parents generally give up quickly to stop the baby from crying or showing anger.

6. Your kids learn from you. Be a role model, which means you too should avoid using your mobile phone in front of your kids.

7. Make a schedule that includes screen time.

8. Encourage them to do more physical activity through art classes , dancing, singing, instrument playing, karate etc. 

9. Limit the uses of the WiFi  .Check if your email, social media, or OTT accounts are under parental control.

10. Discuss the negative impacts of screen time and excessive mobile uses on the brain and personality with your kids.

11. TV and smart phone games are very addictive. Keep an eye on what your kid is watching and playing. 

12. There should be no cell phones at the dinner table, and they should be kept away from the study area.

13. All mobiles devices are in airplane mode 1 hour before going to bed.

14. Take professional help if things are going out of your control.

15. Your 10-year-old does not require a personal smart phone.As a parent, you can share your phone only when it is required.

Remember, we were able to live our lives before Alexa and Siri. You don't need them at home all the time .

It is true that the way mobiles have helped us get connected to the world , has also impacted relationships among family members . 

Mobile addiction is real, and its impacts on health are real too. As a parent it is your responsibility to be responsible for your kids mental and physical health. 

This list of tips will be updated as we discover more effective methods. Till then, keep following at least a few from the list.  

Happy parenting.

Teja Shivasharan