Today’s generation is born into a world of technology. It is not surprising to see your toddler skillfully use gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers to watch their favorite shows and videos or playing games.
However, according to a study, children’s excessive use of gadgets such as mobile phones, tablets, and computer desktops can cause physical and mental damage. They are likely to become overweight and develop seizure and vision problems.
In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that young children should not spend more than an hour a day watching television or playing with their gadgets, while infants less than one year old should not be exposed to electronic screens at all.
Parents usually let their children play with gadgets to prevent a full blown tantrum. Got the same problem? Take your cue from these moms who successfully found a way to limit their kids' screen time.
Jennica Garcia Uytingco
The actress, who is also a natural parenting advocate, shared on her Instagram account last March how being gadget-free lets her daughter have a creative imagination. Mori, her 3-year-old-daughter, keeps herself busy without the use of gadgets. In her post, she shared “In her imaginative mind, she turned a simple chair into a washing machine. A candle holder became a watering can, and a picture frame became a blackboard (her fingers were her pretend chalk).”
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOWShe also encouraged parents to keep their children gadget-free by being a good example to them. Be clear on the rules and be calm in imposing it.
“Kaya mo yan, be clear on what is allowed, what isn’t while being calm and respectful to the child. Most important of all is modelling the right attitude. You want to refrain from using your phone also when they are awake. Read a book, do hand work, chores and they will mimic this without you asking them to do so. I AM PROUD OF YOU MORI! Mahal na mahal kita anak.”
Kourtney Kardashian
The American model/socialite and mom of three does not allow her children to use phones before bedtime; instead, she would read books to them while watching stars projected on their bedroom ceiling. She also occasionally shares on Instagram their favorite children's books.
Molly DeFrank
A blogger mom from Simi Valley California shared in a Facebook post how she found a way to keep her kids away from screens by putting a blanket ban on it. Seven months after banning screen time at home, they eventually learned to go back to reading.
CONTINUE READING BELOWwatch nowShe shared how this scenario changed her kids’ attitude. She added, “I watched my kids go from screen-dependent to cooperatively playing, creating and even making their own ‘school’. I couldn’t believe how easy it was.”
Limiting or removing kids' screen time may be difficult at first, but as what these moms had shared, it will be all worth it when you see the results.
What other parents are reading
