What to do if you are worried about your children’s tech obsession?
Are you tired of constantly arguing with your children about their tech and gadget use? You’re not alone as lots of parents all over the world can relate to what you’re going through. It’s not surprising that young kids and teenagers have so much access to the Internet or mobile apps as we live in a world where almost everyone uses technology for daily tasks and entertainment. In Europe alone, a survey has revealed that 46% of children ages 9 to 16 own a smartphone, and it’s likely that some of these kids are getting into arguments with their parents over their gadget use.
If you don’t want to spend another minute reminding your children to get their tech obsession under control, you may want to try positive ways to get your kids to give up their screen time by encouraging to find a new hobby. A hobby enables children to spend their free time in productive ways. Moreover, it also teaches valuable skills that can help them as they grow. Here’s how you can help your kids find a hobby that they’ll enjoy.
Observe
Your child or teen may not be communicative when it comes to their interests, but by simply observing, you can learn a lot about your children and find an engaging hobby for them. Do you see your child watching dance tutorials on YouTube and trying to memorize the choreography? Then he or she might be interested in a creative pursuit such as hip-hop or modern dance. Or perhaps your teen goes online to view makeup or nail art tutorials? You can enrol your child in a makeup class at the community center or have him or her attend a workshop at the mall.
Don’t force it
You may have enjoyed reading books when you were younger, but that doesn’t mean that your children will be equally enthusiastic about books. Don’t force them to do the things that you used to enjoy, but support them if they express any interest in other hobbies. Keep in mind that you and your child are different people, so willing your child to like the same things as you do may backfire and turn your child off from having a hobby. Moreover, respecting your child’s preferences will result in fewer arguments and enable you to have a happier home.
Show your support
You may not be thrilled at the fact that your child has decided to learn to play the drums, but if this is what your child needs, then provide him or her with the equipment and space to practise—and maybe invest in soundproofing your garage or your child’s room. If your children love crafting, give them the materials that they need to make their masterpieces. If they’ve started going to dance classes or take singing lessons, attend their performances and take lots of pictures. Letting your children know that you support their endeavors will encourage them to keep pursuing their hobbies.
To reduce your children’s screen time and gadget use, encourage them to try a new hobby this year. Finding a hobby that they’ll enjoy may be one of the best things that they can have this year for their health, happiness, and fulfillment.