Reducing Mobile Addiction in Kids

The Concern

I was surprised to find my 3.5-year-old son so addicted to smartphones. As a software engineer, I decided to break this big problem into smaller chunks to solve.

The Influence

He observed other family members using smartphones, even for school assignments. Inherently, a child wants to do everything you do.

The Efforts

I requested family members to limit smartphone use around him. I spent more time talking and playing with him.

Whenever he's around, I ensured to pause my work and engage with him.

Engagement Activities

• More time with grandmother who doesn't use a smartphone.
• Building blocks and construction toys - he loves to catch the real ones in action.
• Bird, animal watching - imitating their sounds
• Teaching him to ride a bicycle.

Limiting Screen Time

I encourage him to search using Google Assistant and and listen to good podcasts in Tamil

I also allow him very limited time to view learning cartoons on YouTube. he now returns the mobile himself post finishing his screen-time quota for the day!

The Outcome

The smartphone addiction has reduced considerably now. At times he still sneaks in and watch his favorite videos, but it's very less frequent now.

Your Experiences

What are the techniques you follow with your kids? What works and what doesn't. Do let me know.