Ipad Addiction In Today's Kids

Nowadays gadgets have become an important part of every household.  Communication and teaching methods have advanced a lot. I remember the old times, when just learning a poem would mean reciting it over and over again from your book till it was memorized. But nowadays, we have so many options available, like Youtube- wherein we just make the kids hear the poem repeatedly till they finally learn it. I mean is this called advancement?

I have seen a few kids who are excessively addicted to today’s technology. Seeing kids sitting all the time with the playstation and the x-box worries me a lot. And I always feel that they are loosing a lot many things in their life.

Of course, I know that there are certain apps which might help in the mental development of the kids. But parents should be able to set certain boundaries to be careful that the entertainment should not be replaced by addiction.

Some Important Pointers I believe :-

• Allot Time:- Set a time limit on the amount of time your child can spend  playing games on the I-Pad each day. Use a timer or set an alarm to let him know that it’s time to stop playing.  I limit I-pad time for my son to 30 minutes per day.
• Be A Role Model Yourself:- Set a time limit for yourself too for usage of such gadgets in order to be a good example to your child. If they see you following your own rules, then they will be more likely to follow them happily.
• Spend quality time with your child :- Keep them busy – play with them, read stories together, make crafts, involve them in cooking, go on family outings occasionally and dance together. In short, give them gift of your love and time.
• Build Up Their confidence:- Observe Your childs interests carefully. For ex- If they love colouring or drawing, help them pursue their hobbies by motivating them in their field of interest. My son was fond of collecting cars since he was small. So, my hubby took it a step further by getting him car making kits and legos to keep him busy and unlock his potential at the same time.
• Keep a watch over your kids:-  When children begin to develop new friendships, they often start following their new friends in terms of dressings, their likes, dislikes and everyday patterns too. A new friend with a few parental restrictions may seem fun to your child, but this freedom is dangerous. Always ask your child where they are going, who they are going with and what is their plan. If you suspect your child’s new friend is a bad influence, sit down and talk to your child about their friendship. Really listen to what your child has to say and then decide if this relationship is to be worried about or not.

Be alert and be safe from this dangerous addiction!!