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In today’s era, when gaming is attracting the younger generation, it is very important for parents to recognize the signs of potential addiction and its impact on the overall health of their children. Considering the wide-ranging effects of excessive screen time on physical, mental and social health, a holistic approach to healthcare is essential.
The consequences of unchangeable gaming habits
If gaming addiction is ignored, it can lead to serious consequences in the long term. Spending long hours on screens can lead to persistent eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, which includes symptoms such as blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches. Furthermore, excessive gaming can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased academic performance. Lack of physical activity can lead to obesity and related health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the psychological impact can be profound, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and social isolation. It is important to intervene in time to minimize these risks and ensure your child’s overall health and well-being.
Proactively addressing gaming addiction can help ensure a balanced and healthy lifestyle for your child. If your child is addicted to gaming, there are three steps you can take. These are the suggestions of Dr. Praveen Patil, Vitreo Retina Specialist at Sri Venkatesh Eye Institute.
1. Monitor and limit screen time: Instead of cutting down on gaming time outright, you can take small steps to limit or minimize screen time for your kids.
· Set clear rules: Agree on specific times to play games with children.
· Use parental controls: Every device comes with built-in parental controls to set time limits and monitor usage on gaming consoles and devices. Use it.
Create a schedule: Create a daily schedule that includes set times for different activities, which will ensure a balanced routine.
· Encourage breaks: To reduce eye strain, apply the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
Tech-free zones or times: Designate certain areas of the home, such as the dining room and bedroom, as tech-free zones to encourage other activities like board games, cards, or reading.
2. Promote alternative activities: If you want to keep your child away from gaming devices, it is also essential that you replace it with something exciting that will help distract their mind.
· Explore interests together: Spend time with your child exploring new hobbies and activities to find out what they like. You could also try attending fun workshops or classes together.
· Set an example: Be a role model by engaging in off-screen activities yourself. Don’t forget that children often copy their parents’ behaviour.
· Create an activity list: Create a list of fun, non-screen activities that your child can choose from. This could include things like board games, crafts, outdoor play, and reading.
Rewards system: Implement a rewards system where children can earn points or rewards for participating in non-screen activities. This habit will motivate them to participate more.
· Organise playdates: Organise playdates with friends where screen time is off-limits. Encourage outdoor games, sports or other group activities.
3. Seek professional guidance: If none of the above tips help, it is advisable to seek help from a professional who would know how to deal with it better.
· Consult a pediatrician: If you notice signs of gaming addiction, schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to discuss your concerns and get referrals to specialists.
Find a therapist: Look for a behavioral therapist who specializes in gaming addiction or child psychology. They can provide strategies and support for both the child and your family.
Regular check-ups: Get regular eye check-ups from an ophthalmologist to monitor and manage any eye strain or vision problems caused by excessive screen time.
Join support groups: Consider joining support groups for parents facing similar problems. Sharing experiences and strategies can be very helpful.
Educational resources: Access books, online courses, and workshops that focus on managing screen time and promoting healthy digital habits.
By taking these steps, parents can ensure the well-being of their children and help them maintain a balanced lifestyle.
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