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Smartphones. Tablets. TVs. Most kids in the United States have access to some kind of device with a screen, and it’s almost certain they are using it daily. Ted Lowe, Buck Buchanan, and Reggie Lewis discuss the gravitational pull of technology and how screens are taking over our homes. 

Even if you’ve successfully limited screen time with your kids, the stats on tech use are incredible. In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt shares this eye-opening data about kids’ growing technology addiction:

·      American kids ages 8-12 view a screen for nearly 5 hours per day on average. 

·      Teens’ screen time exceeds 7 hours per day on average.

·      Over 70% of teens don’t get the recommended amount of sleep due to screen usage. 

·      Attention spans have decreased in children by nearly 50% during the last 15 years due in part to screens. 

·      72% of parents expressed concern about their children’s screen time but many feel ill-equipped to manage it.

Technology has the same effect on the portion of the brain that impacts function and impulse control as cocaine. Screen time is highly addictive. How do we handle this growing technology addiction as parents?

 Here are a few tips from The Anxious Generation.

1.    Open Communication

2.    Set Clear Screen Time Limits

3.    Create Tech-Free Zones and Times

4.    Model Healthy Tech Use

5.    Educate About Digital Citizenship

6.    Monitor Online Activity

7.    Support Mental Health

Today’s Pro Move:

Choose one of Dr. Haidt’s tips and have a conversation with your kid. 

Other resources: 

Breaking the Video Game Addicted Kid

Are You Making Your Kids Addicts Without Even Knowing It?

19 Alternatives to Screen Time Your Kids Will Actually Like

All Pro Dad Child Safety Series

"The Anxious Generation" by Dr. Jonathan Haidt

10 Ways Your Child Can Use the Cell Phone for Good 

5 Ways to Monit

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