Parents should choose alternative to save children from gadget addiction: experts
Sunday, 27 August 2023 | MANSI BHAMBRI | DEHRADUN
The issue of children being addicted to mobile phone and television has become a major concern for parents. To combat this, parents must encourage their children to engage in other activities. Recently, 18-year-old R Praggnanandhaa made history by becoming the youngest chess player to reach the final of a FIDE World Cup. He credits his success to his parents who pushed him towards chess to overcome his addiction to electronic gadgets. Experts suggest that parents must find alternative options to distract their children from the excessive use of television and mobile phones.
Commenting on television and mobile phone addiction among children a parent Bindu Bisht said that with the advancement of technology, the lives of children seem to revolve around television and phones. Parents must take responsibility for their children’s behavior and take steps to prevent such addiction. Opting for alternative options as better activities will be the best key, she added.
Former secretary of Shanti Tennis Academy, Arun Kumar Saxena told this correspondent, “With the rise in TV and mobile phone addiction, it’s crucial to find alternative options which can distract our children from these gadgets. One possible solution is to enroll them in sports classes, such as tennis or other physical and mental activity. Not only will this help to reduce their screen time, it can also improve their overall health and wellbeing. It is important to encourage our children to engage in activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.”
Chief instructor of Indian Renbukan Karate-Do Association (IRKDA) Arvind Kumar Kotnala said that it is important for parents to be aware of the potential negative effects of excessive phone and television use on their children’s minds and concentration. He said that engaging in activities like karate, badminton and kickboxing can be a productive way for children to take a break from screens. It is the responsibility of parents to encourage and facilitate alternative activities for their children that can benefit their overall wellbeing, he added.Clinical psychologist Pratibha Sharma said, “Inadequate parenting can be one of the main reasons behind the addiction to electronic gadgets among children. Addiction to electronic gadgets can cause depression, obesity, lack of social norms and less focus on study among children. To prevent such cases, parents must choose an alternative to distract their children from screen addiction. Sports will be the better option to distract their mind from electronic gadgets.”
