Technology is an indispensable part of the modern era. From everyday chores to entertainment, technology has seeped right into each and every aspect of life. No wonder technological advancements have helped bring both ease and efficiency to our life. However, it also has its own share of negative effects, which is majorly visible in the form of overdependence on technology.
This also holds true for children who are dependent on technology for education, socializing, entertainment, and a lot more. This has resulted in many of them getting addicted to it, and we all know no form of addiction is good. It is this addiction that gives rise to techno-tantrums in children.
A techno-tantrum basically refers to a situation wherein children begin throwing a tantrum on being asked to disconnect from a gadget or device. This is a self-destructive behavior and is unhealthy in every perceivable way. We know that you, being responsible parents, wouldn’t let your children suffer from anything bad. As such, it becomes important for you to be aware of the rising issue of techno-tantrums among kids, its potential consequences, and how to help protect your kids from its lasting effects on your child. So today, in this article below, we at Delhi Public School Kangra, one of the top schools in Kangra, will share with you all a few handy tips you can follow to abate these tantrums in your kids.
First, Identify the Signs
As mentioned before, Techno-Tantrums, result from techno-addiction. Thus, it’s obvious that to tackle this, you must identify whether your child is addicted to it or not. This addiction can manifest in many ways, but the most common are:
- Repetitively checking social media and choosing it as a substitute for face-to-face interaction.
- Compulsively scrolling through their phones or tablets.
- Feeling anxious or guilty when they aren’t using technology and struggling to limit their time.
- Spending too much time in front of the television and playing video games.
Ways To Control Children’s Techno-Tantrums
There are many ways to control children’s techno-tantrums. The following should help you get started:
- Set a measurable quantity, not time: Let’s face it, most children prefer to play than do their homework, chores, etc. Thus, we often see children say, “Five more minutes, mom!” when their time’s up. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? Thus, set quantifiable limits. For example, suppose they are playing video games; they must set their device aside after completing a certain amount of game levels. To ensure they follow this, involve yourself with them as they are about to complete the last level and play together. After completion, tell them, “Let’s go!” They’ll try and heckle first, but be calm yet firm. That should do the trick!
- Limit the amount of time they spend on social media: You must try a different approach, as you can’t set a quantity for this mode of entertainment. Set time limits and enforce them. Consider parental control software if your child doesn’t comply. Such software has great features which allow parents to limit internet usage. For example, they have features that will shut off access to any social media/entertainment site after a set period.
- Create a family tech plan: Creating a family tech plan is essential to limiting your child’s device usage. For example, if you have one television or a computer, limit the time each family member uses it. You, too, must play your part here by setting an example. We guarantee they’ll follow suit if they see you are also respecting the rules.
- Give Them Chores: Chores are great for building character and limiting tech time. So, assign chores to your and stress that it’s their You must be firm here as it will teach them to be responsible. Some basic chores you can assign your children include cleaning their rooms daily, washing the dinner plates after dinner, watering the plants, taking out the trash, etc. However, be sure to reward them for each task weekly. In time, kids realize that the value of money is a lot more than their leisure, and it will help them get into this routine.
Final Words
Techno-tantrums thrown by kids can be really frustrating for parents to face. However, they aren’t difficult to manage, provided you take the right approach. The tips shared in this article today will not just aid you in curbing such techno-tantrums but will also help you instill a sense of responsibility in your kids.
At Delhi Public School Kangra, ranked among the top schools in Kangra, we firmly believe that technology is indeed essential in today’s times, but too much of it can turn into a bane. The key lies in maintaining a balance. However, this needs to be taught to children at a young age. Hopefully, this article has been helpful to you in this regard. We wish you the best and guarantee that help will always be there in our posts. Take care!