Smart phones are overtaking our culture and in some instances, our lives. Our children and teens are slowly becoming tech zombies. They are constantly using their cell phones and other technological devices (laptops, computers, gaming systems, etc.) and are oblivious to the world around them, much like a zombie. Many parents don’t want their children to have smart phones, but they worry about the social stigma of not having one or they feel they need to be reachable or traceable all the time in today’s world.
As a parent, here are some things to think about as to whether your child may be having a problem with too much technology in their daily routine:
- Do you find yourself arguing with them about screen time, or is it causing tension in your family?
- Do they use technology as a way of escaping problems or relieving feelings of anxiety or depression?
- Do they feel the need to immediately respond to their smart phone?
- Are they constantly checking their smart phone, even if it isn’t ringing or vibrating?
- Have they lied or tried to conceal the amount of time they spend online?
- Do they neglect schoolwork, their friends, or other responsibilities because they spend too much time online?
Children need to learn that technology is a poor substitute for personal interaction; this will not help them with their everyday lives as they grow into responsible adults. Social and emotional intelligence are critical for success in life. They need to learn how to listen and observe their surroundings, how to be curious about the people around them and interested in their surroundings.
We need to help our children learn how to realize it isn’t an all or nothing type of situation. It is about everything in moderation. Screen time is ok, it helps with certain situations in our lives and can make some things simpler and better.
- Help your children find other activities to fill that time; sports, family time, games, or good old fashion conversations
- Schedule specific time for screen time each day
- Remove screen time 1 hour before bed and don’t allow them to keep devices in their room
If you determine technology is negatively impacting your family and you’re at a loss for where to go from here, ask yourself, what are our children and teens trying to tell us?
- Are they depressed?
- Are they anxious or stressed out?
- Are they being bullied?
- Do they put themselves down despite the compliments and praise that you give them?
How can you help your child become less of a tech zombie? Realize that every family situation is unique and asking for help is an option. At Cameron Pediatric Counseling, we know how to help each family come up with a plan that will work for your specific circumstances. We will help you and your child figure out what will work for you and how to implement it in a way that’s unique to you and your child or teen.
