Signs That Help Mother Identify TV Addiction in Children

Television addiction in children is considered one of the most prominent problems that mothers need to address with speed and awareness. Excessive use of electronic devices such as television and smartphones causes many physical and psychological problems that can be prevented through early intervention.

Follow the lines below with the Benaat platform to learn about the most important signs of screen addiction and how to deal with them wisely and calmly, in a way that contains the child’s emotions and treats the problem without confrontation.

Key Signs of Screen Addiction in Children

A child who excessively watches television or uses screens in general may show a number of signs, including:

• Increased irritability and aggressive behavior toward others.

• Feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression.

• Sleep disorders and insomnia.

• Hearing weakness, blurred vision, and reduced eyesight.

• Neck and arm pain due to prolonged incorrect sitting posture.

• Decline in academic performance and poor concentration.

• A tendency toward isolation and withdrawal from social activities.

• Clear tantrums when prevented from watching television.

• Delayed language development and speech difficulties such as stuttering.

• Improved mood and feelings of happiness only while watching television.

• Reduced physical activity and increased risk of obesity.

• Appetite disorders, whether increased eating or loss of appetite.

• Hyperactivity and attention deficit.

Tips for Dealing with Television Addiction in Children

Television addiction in children can be controlled through a set of practical steps, including:

• Setting a specific viewing time that must not be exceeded.

• Watching some programs with the child and discussing their content.

• Choosing programs that are appropriate for the child’s age.

• Providing enjoyable alternatives such as sports activities, outings, and hands-on games like drawing and coloring.

• Being a role model by reducing your own television watching so the child can imitate you.

• Establishing a balanced daily routine that includes limited television time and more time for other activities.

• Encouraging the child to exercise and participate in social activities.

• Motivating the child to read, write, draw, and acquire new skills.

• Providing educational materials that match the child’s interests.

• Showing firmness when setting rules related to television time.

• Maintaining calmness and patience until the child adapts to the new routine.

• Avoiding excessive strict commands, as they increase tension and stubbornness.

• Reducing television time gradually instead of banning it completely.

• Strengthening emotional communication with the child and containing their feelings.

Screen Addiction Treatment Course

When signs of television addiction in children are noticed, they should not be ignored or left to worsen, as this can lead to serious physical and psychological harm.

Although applying the previous tips may reduce the problem, they may not address its root causes, which can place the mother in a cycle of confusion and conflict with the child.

This is where the “Our Children and Smart Screens” course comes in, presented by Ms. Shaimaa Abu Eita, offering practical and effective solutions for dealing with children’s addiction to electronic devices.

Through the course, mothers learn:

• How to deal positively with their child’s behaviors and find entertaining alternatives to screens.

• Ways to avoid the impact of screens on children’s mental, linguistic, and social development.

• Strategies that help children achieve balance between device use and other activities.

You can join the course through the Benaat platform, the first school for mothers in the Arab world, where you will find comprehensive support and a practical guide for dealing with parenting challenges.

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