If I asked you what is one of the biggest challenges, we as parents are facing in today’s life, what would your answer be? Kids and teens being stuck to their screen, of course!
We cannot deny the benefits of living in a world with instant access to information and communication. However, research shows that technology overuse is detrimental to children and teens whose brain is still developing. Although internet addiction is not yet an official disorder, obsessive internet use is doing serious damage to our children!
As a parent coach, I came up with an acronym that summarizes different tips under an umbrella I call the GSC strategy, in order to help parents, manage their children’s screen time and prevent it from becoming an addiction.
Here ‘s what GSC stands for:
G for GUIDANCE:
Practice what you preach and thus decrease your time spent on social media. After all, you can’t tell your children to get off their devices if you’re scrolling down your Facebook page!
As most addictions start with a habit, teach your children to replace this destructive habit with values centered goals and activities. Don’t forget to encourage them to stay involved with their hobbies
Set rules and teach them how to manage their time in order to reach their goals. Distraction is one of the main obstacles that keep us from pursuing our dreams!
S for SUPERVISION:
Monitor your children’s web history and check what they’ve been searching for and with whom they’ve been interacting to understand more WHY they’re so busy on their mobile phone or iPad. I advise you to do it with their approval, or by sitting with them and asking them what they’ve been doing on their device.
Create a personalized contract that both you and your children sign (agreeing on time spent per day on screens, putting phones and other devices away during study time, mealtimes, before bedtime, etc.) and make sure that the whole family sticks to the terms of the contract.
Keep an eye on your children while they are behind their screens. Be on the lookout for any change in their behavior. Examples such as mood swings, anxiety, being constantly tired, irritable, or withdrawn are all considered as “red flags”
C for COMMUNICATION:
Have a conversation about the safe and healthy use of technology and the serious physical, emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal negative impact on human beings
Talk with your children about their feelings and show them your support and your availability. If you want to mentor your children on their ONLINE behavior, you should engage with them OFFLINE. Studies show that if your child is overly reliant on a device, that means they are less connected to you!
Discuss the importance of a balance between online and in-person time. Encourage direct communication/interaction with family and friends through physical activities for example or a “screen off” day.
As Frederick Douglass said: “It is easier to build a child than to repair broken men”. Awareness is key, and communication is magic. Children need our attention; they flourish in families where connections are deep and where face-to-face communication is cultivated. I understand how hard it is to be consistent when maintaining a busy lifestyle. But, making it a priority to consistently set boundaries on your family’s screen time, will prevent technology overuse and addiction, and ensure a healthier and happier family time!
