SCREEN TIME AND THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON YOUR CHILDREN
The whole “screen time” thing is a very big problem at my house when my partner’s four children are here so I started looking online for articles about video game addition, children, their brains and video games, etc. While researching the topic of screen time and children, I have found some very interesting stuff, as it can lead to obesity in children, behavioral problems and issues with sleeping patterns.
One of the biggest things I see as a huge issue is with ADHD diagnosed children. I once had a charge in my care who was obsessed with the games. His parents had NO problem if he was on for 5-7 hours a time on Saturday or Sunday mornings. This way, they could sleep in and the sibling rivalry and fighting was kept at a minimum with their attention on the screen. It became so bad that it seemed more and more addicted, dependent, obsessed.
Screen time is an addiction~ Have you ever had your child get off the games and all of a sudden he is bored, throwing a temper tantrum or complaining there is nothing to do? Compulsive video gaming is a modern-day psychological disorder that experts tell WebMD is becoming more and more popular!! If the doctor told you that your child had a “disorder” would you continue to feed it by giving your child more of what you know will just make him more “sick”?
Think about hiring a nanny or babysitter or have your child engage in a playdate. Allowing your child screen time without limits is not really productive parenting!