Technology Addiction in Children

Technology has enriched our lives in some many ways for the better, but it’s no secret that we’ve became too dependent on it as well. Technology addiction is a big problem of modern world, especially when it comes to kids.

Computers, iPads, and smart-phones have replaced TVs as means to keep kids occupied, entertained or calm them down. That’s not necessarily a bad thing if used wisely; technology is a great tool to support your child’s creativity, thinking, curiosity, memory etc.

But where is that healthy balance between beneficial and harmful? As a parent, you want best for your child, you want him to discover and grow up understanding modern world he lives in. But how do you know if you’re allowing your child to spend too much time playing on iPad or cell phone? When does learning and playing slips into dangerous technology addiction and more harm than good?

Technology addiction is making healthy kids sick

Teenage addiction to technology has dangerous physical and psychological consequences on child’s health and behavior. Kids who spend too much time in front of screens tend to be:

• Less physically active
• More obese
• Have more chance in life to develop and stick to unhealthy life habits resulting in diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depression
• Have problems with socialization and interacting with other kids
• Low concentration, memory and learning problems
• Restless sleep, sleep disorders etc.

5 signs your child is addicted to technology

If you suspect that electronic gadgets are influencing your child’s behavior more than anything or anyone else, these signs are good indicator it’s time for “digital detox”:

1. Not interested in anything else but engaging with technology. Doesn’t want to do any other fun activity (like play outdoor games with friends, ride a bike, play with pets etc.)
2. Can’t talk or think anything else but technology. You simply can’t reach them, they seem absent, look very disinterested for any conversation you bring up, but suddenly become very verbal and energized once you start talking about that thing they play on smart phone.
3. Distressed or angry when they can’t play with their device or go online. If your child is irritable or anxious while separated from electronic devices, but gets instantly calm in front of screen – that’s withdrawal symptoms. Their brain needs a surge of dopamine which it gets when it’s occupied with online wonders.
4. More argumentative and defensive than usual. When you interrupt fun activity, it’s normal for kids to protest a little, but they usually go along with you without bursting into passionate argument. But when you’re dealing with technology addiction, you will get a lot more attitude, vicious argumentation and hateful words from your kid, when you shut the screen off.
5. Hiding gadgets and lying about how much time they spend with them. Parents shouldn’t take it personal as a sign of disrespect; they should take it as a good sign that kids need their help because it’s the technology addiction that prevents them to act reasonably

Keep your child safe from EMF radiation

Portable computers, mobiles, tablets and any wireless technology emit harmful electromagnetic radiation. Kids are especially vulnerable and absorb more radiation than adults because their bodies are still developing, more so if they exposed to EMFs for longer periods of time. In spite of the fact that EMFs have been classified as possible carcinogen by World Health Organization four years ago (in 2011), many parents are unfortunately still not aware of EMF dangers. For more information on harmful long term consequences of exposing children to electromagnetic radiation, please read: EMF radiation effects on children