IS YOUR CHILD ADDICTED TO THE MOBILE SCREEN?

FIND OUT HOW DISASTROUS THIS CAN BE TO YOUR CHILD S LIFE. HERE ARE EXPERT TIPS TO WEAN AWAY YOUR CHILD FROMTHEM

- DR. TEENA ABISHEK & JOAN JAYASEELAN

It’s increasingly common to see infants and toddlers absorbed in videos on phones or iPads, often to the delight of parents who believe their children are smart and independent. However, it's crucial to distinguish between entertainment and addiction. Excessive screen time can lead to poor sleep, device dependency, and depressive symptoms. It can also activate dopamine pathways, contributing to ADHD-related behaviors. Parents should limit screen time, especially for young children. Instead of relying on gadgets, spend quality time talking and cuddling with your kids without distractions. Ignoring their conversations hampers their ability to listen to others.

While educational content online can be beneficial, it's vital to ensure age-appropriate content and limit usage. If parents struggle to care for their children all day, seek help from family, trusted adults, or play schools. If managing one child is challenging, consider delaying having another,” says Dr. Teena Abishek.

Dr. Teena Abishek holds a Ph.D. in Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and also stands as a distinguished force in the realm of maternal and infant healthcare as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®). She currently practices at Apollo Specialty Hospitals in OMR Chennai. She was also named "Best Woman Health Speaker of the Year 2022" by the Houston Tamil Studies Chair, USA. Her insights have been featured on TV, newspapers, and radio, solidifying her status as an influential voice in women's health.