Is Your Child Addicted To Gaming? Know 3 Things You should Do

(By Dr. Pravin Patil, Vitreo Retina Specialist and Partner at Shri Venkatesh Eye Institute)As gaming continues to captivate the younger generation, it’s becoming increasingly important for parents to recognise the signs of potential addiction and its impact on their children's overall well-being. A holistic approach to healthcare is essential, considering the broader implications of excessive screen time on physical, mental, and social health. Addressing gaming addiction proactively can help ensure a balanced and healthy lifestyle for your child.3 WAYS TO STEER YOUR CHILD AWAY FROM GAMING:1) Monitor And Limit Screen Time:Set Clear Rules: Set up an agreement with the kids for specific times for gaming.Use Parental Controls: Every device comes with built-in parental controls on gaming consoles and devices to set time limits and monitor usage.Create a Schedule: Develop a daily schedule that includes designated times for various activities, ensuring a balanced routine.Encourage Breaks: Implement the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.Tech-Free Zones/time: Designate certain areas of the house, such as the dining room and bedrooms, as tech-free zones to promote other activities like board games, cards etc, or reading. Image Source: ABP Live AI 2) Promote Alternative Activities:Explore Interests Together: Spend time with your child exploring new hobbies and activities to find what they enjoy. Attend workshops or classes together if possible.Set an Example: Be a role model by engaging in non-screen activities yourself. Children often imitate their parents' behaviours.Create an Activity List: Develop a list of fun, non-screen activities that your child can choose from. This can include things like board games, crafts, outdoor sports, and reading.Reward System: Implement a reward system where children earn points or rewards for engaging in non-screen activities. This can motivate them to participate more.Organise Playdates: Arrange playdates with friends where screen time is not the focus. Encourage outdoor games, sports, or other group activities. Image Source: ABP Live AI3) Seek Professional Guidance:Consult a Paediatrician: If you notice signs of gaming addiction, schedule an appointment with your child's paediatrician to discuss your concerns and get referrals to specialists.Find a Therapist: Look for a behavioural therapist who specialises in gaming addiction or child psychology. They can provide strategies and support for both the child and the family.Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist to monitor and manage any eye strain or vision problems caused by excessive screen time.Join Support Groups: Consider joining support groups for parents facing similar issues. Sharing experiences and strategies can be very helpful.Educational Resources: Utilise books, online courses, and workshops that focus on managing screen time and promoting healthy digital habits.CONSEQUENCES OF UNCHANGED GAMING HABITS:If gaming addiction is left unaddressed, it can lead to severe long-term consequences. Prolonged screen time can cause chronic eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, which includes symptoms like blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches. Additionally, excessive gaming can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased academic performance. The lack of physical activity can result in obesity and related health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the psychological impact can be profound, with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and social isolation. It's crucial to intervene early to diminish these risks and ensure your child's overall health and well-being.By taking these steps, parents can ensure their children's well-being and help them maintain a balanced lifestyle.[Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do notreflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP News Network Pvt Ltd.]