Right now, our lives are more digital than ever. People now spend big chunks of their day looking at phones, computers, tablets, and TVs. By and large, children are usually the most tech-savvy among us too. In fact, Common Sense Media reported that 64 percent of kids have internet access on their own devices. Therefore, many parents are worried about seeing their child’s eyes always glued to screens. Likewise, too much device use will get in the way of schoolwork and friendships. Although it’s hard, taking your kids offline can enrich their day with real-life activities. So, let’s explore a few proven methods for how to limit screen time for children through an adolescent treatment center NC trusts.
Create a Regular Routine
First, each child thrives when their days are structured. Scheduling brief time slots for device use is how to limit screen time. For instance, you could assign 30 minutes for television before school. After they complete their homework, another 60 minutes might be marked down for video games. Sometimes, parents use tokens children can do chores for and get extra time. Altogether, kids should earn only two to three hours of screen time daily. Setting a kitchen timer can be a great way to keep track. Indeed, the key is staying consistent and not giving in to excuses.
Use Parental Controls
Second, download apps that let parents monitor their kid’s digital habits. Generally, these free apps collect data about how and where children are spending their time. Next, parents can talk with their sons and daughters about better time management. Further, some apps will control what youngsters are viewing. Certainly, it’s important to block adult content like sex and alcohol use. Additionally, the App Store has software to shut off home Wi-Fi at certain times. To explain, you could take their devices offline during dinner and after bedtime.
Encourage Other Hobbies
Third, how to limit screen time typically involves finding alternate activities to enjoy. Accordingly, help your child choose hobbies for their unique interests. Perhaps sign your creative kid up for community art classes. Similarly, enroll your athletic child in a youth sports league. At home, schedule family time for playing board games and doing puzzles. Then, leave the devices behind for weekend day trips like state parks or museums. Promote reading by visiting local libraries and bookstores. In short, replace devices with other kinds of hands-on fun.
How to Limit Screen Time Tips Not Working?
Of course, every kid would be grumpy about new tech rules at first. However, more extreme reactions could signal a deeper problem. For example, children might develop depression from withdrawal. Fortunately, Foothills at Red Oak Recovery is a leading process addiction treatment center that can help. Expressly, our Ellenboro facility specializes in treating teens usually aged 14-17. Thus, our friendly clinicians know how to address addiction problems in these tricky adolescent years. We’re proud to serve young people with CARF-accredited services, such as:
- Psychological testing
- Individual therapy
- Trauma-informed care
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Life skills education
Don’t let your son or daughter keep missing life’s precious moments. Instead, turn to Foothills at Red Oak Recovery to break their internet or video game addiction. After all, our adolescent treatment center in NC focuses on unique teenage challenges. Without delay, call us at 866-305-9078 and find how to limit screen time for good.
