The most popular “M” word after Mom is a “mobile” which all parents dread.
Cell phones are a major source of entertainment for kids as well as for adults. With the advent of social media, it has become a major time consumer for children. Children aged between 2 years to 5 years get involved with attractive gameplay on cell phones. It really makes them addicted. So are you wondering how not to fall into the trap of excessive screen time?
Here are four ways to help your child get rid of their cell phone:
ENGAGE YOUR CHILD
This is the best (and the most productive) way to keep your child away from mobile phones. Take them to the playground and spend time doing physical activities. If this is not possible, then involve your child with any neighbouring sports club or get them outdoors for a walk through nature. It could give rise to a curiosity about the environment and surroundings, reducing the addiction to mobile phones.
TALK, COMMUNICATE OR MAKE STORIES
Children love to use mobile phones, as the vibrant colours and animations seem appealing to them. You should describe the characters of their favourite play and relate them to real-life stories. You can also engage them in the traditional stories that you grew up listening to. This will not only ease parent-child communication but also help them get rid of their phones.
DO NOT BAN CELL PHONE USAGE
This may sound contradictory to what you want to do, but it has logic. Children and teens develop a rebellious nature when you prohibit something. Hence, try ways by which they will not want to use cell phones by themselves. Laying down stringent rules of limited cell phone usage will only want to make them use the gadget more.
PLAN YOUR FAMILY TIME
Plan a picnic every weekend or take short family trips often into the woods where there is no network coverage. Visit family members whom your kid likes. This way, you are not only strengthening family ties but also helping your child limit their cell phone usage.