Screens have become an integral part of daily life in the world we raising our kids. Even children aged 2-4 are impacted by our screen time because of the time they see their parents on their phones, texting and checking Instagram. This scenario is a constant battle that none of us saw coming, even just a few years ago pre-COVID.
Think of how often we are at a restaurant and see a family with multiple children on the parents phones, or have an iPad and zero engagement within the family. Not to downplay the usefulness of the screens or the power they can give us, but if we are not careful we can let "screen time" go too far! The ubiquity of iPads and phones is undeniable, but we must be vigilant about the potential consequences of excessive screen use.
—As a note here if I could wave a magic wand, I would not allow technology for kids younger than 10 years old. Why?
Research indicates that excessive screen time can lead to a range of behavioral and psychological issues.
Addictive Behaviors
One of the most concerning aspects of screen use in young children is the development of addictive behaviors. The constant stimulation from screens can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain, creating a cycle of dependency similar to substance addiction. Children may become irritable, anxious, or even aggressive when their screen time is limited or removed. This dependency can manifest in several ways:
Increased Screen Time: Children may demand more time on their devices, often at the expense of other activities such as playing outside, reading, or spending time with family.
Emotional Outbursts: When screen time is restricted, children may exhibit intense emotional reactions, including tantrums and mood swings1.
Social Withdrawal: Excessive screen use can lead to social isolation, as children may prefer virtual interactions over real-life relationships2.
Physical Withdrawal Symptoms
When children are deprived of their screens, they can exhibit physical withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced by substance addicts. These symptoms may include:
Restlessness and Irritability: Children may become fidgety and irritable without their devices.
Sleep Disturbances: The absence of screens can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or difficulty falling asleep3.
Physical Discomfort: Some children may experience headaches, eye strain, or other physical discomforts when they are not using screens3.
A Path to Healing
It is our responsibility to guide our children towards healthy habits and balanced lives! What can we do to mitigate the negative effects of screen time:
Set Boundaries: Establish and enforce limits on screen time. Encourage alternative activities that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Model Healthy Behavior: Children often mimic the behavior of adults. Demonstrate balanced screen use and prioritize face-to-face interactions. Put our Instagram and Twitter away!
Create Screen-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of the home, such as bedrooms and dining areas, as screen-free zones to encourage family bonding and restful sleep.
Engage in Prayer: Incorporate prayer, Bible study, and other spiritual practices into daily routines to foster a sense of peace and connection with God.
Reflecting on Our Role
As we navigate the challenges of raising children in a digital age, let us remember the words of Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” By setting healthy boundaries and nurturing our children’s spiritual growth, we can help them develop into well-rounded individuals who are not enslaved by the allure of screens.
A Note On The Apps
As you understand what is happening to our children, and even ourselves, it is important to note that the designers of the Apps are making them addictive on purpose!!! Because more use of their app makes them more profit! Here are a few ways this is happening. Also I will share who the worst offenders are.
Here are a few strategies designed to make their apps more addictive.
1. Micro-interactions
Apps are designed for “microsessions,” allowing users to engage in meaningful activities within a short time frame. This keeps users coming back frequently throughout the day.
2. Gamification
Introducing elements of competition, rewards, and achievements can make even mundane tasks feel exciting. This includes features like points, badges, leaderboards, and challenges.
3. Personalization
Apps often use algorithms to tailor content to individual users’ preferences, making the experience feel more relevant and engaging. This can include personalized recommendations, notifications, and content feeds.
4. Social Features
Encouraging social interaction within the app, such as sharing, commenting, and liking, can increase user engagement. Features that allow users to see what their friends are doing or to compete with them can also enhance the addictive nature of the app.
5. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Notifications and updates are designed to create a sense of urgency and the fear of missing out on something important. This can drive users to check the app more frequently.
6. Infinite Scroll and Auto-play
Features like infinite scroll and auto-play keep users engaged by continuously presenting new content without requiring any action from the user. This can lead to prolonged usage sessions. Think Roblox and Minecraft. These games have no end, no lives that eventually run out, and no levels. 25+ years ago, video games had a start and an end. No more!! Now they want you to play it as long as they can keep you.
3: Why Are Kids So Addicted to Screens? - Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.
Questions for Reflection:
What are your thoughts on balancing screen time with other activities for children?
How do you think Bible study, prayer, or healthy conversation can help in this context?
Are our kids engaged enough in outdoor activities? What should we do about this?