Anti social kids......I've just realised over the last few weeks how dependent my kids are becoming on electronic devices and becoming anti social to the point where they don't want to do anything other than play on there iPads. I must say though, hubby works away so I have been guilty of giving in and letting them play, sometimes for hours at a time. My question is, I feel powerless to turn this situation around...any tips and ideas for getting my kids to just enjoy being kids and less dependent on electronic devices they are 6 and 8.
3 Replies
Firstly I don't see this as any different to letting them eat too much chocolate or junk food. It can be turned around and its up to us to do it. Yes there maybe complaints and even some tears, but they are kids, and it's ok to set new boundaries and follow through.
So decide on some rules that suit your family. Are you aiming for an hour a day maximum? More on weekends/less during the week. Think about what you think is a healthy amount. Then while your kids are at school put those devices in a drawer somewhere. Unplug any play stations etc. they are a pain to plug in, so set up your environment where it's a hassle to use it!
Get some routine in the house. Come home from school, snack, homework, outside time, chores, then device for set period of time!
Plan some weekend outings. Parks, playgrounds, swimming pool etc.
It's ok to have days where it's a free for all, as long as the kids know it's a special treat due to wet weather, illness etc.
Have timers set up. Give them a limit per day eg, 1/2 hour on school days, 1 hour on weekends.
But first, they have to have an hour/half hour play outside.
Instead of playing iPad on weekends, go to the park. (Leave your phone in the car, if they see you on it, they'll be like "why does mum get to play on her phone").
Or, you could have a "no device November" etc. where you all can't use devices (except phones for calls etc) no Facebook. Either.
You're the adult, so you need to be struck with them.
We have technology free time. Where they arent aloud technology for x amount of hours. It works really well now but at the beginning they really tested the lets nag mum till she gives in type thing but just have to stay strong and not give in.