Does your child already have a screen dependency disorder?

Sometimes our children are very dependent on gadgets but we have not noticed. gadgets are their focus because of their parents' willingness to use gadgets.

Moms and daddies, is your child always focused on smartphones? Of course, phones and tablets help to entertain — and keep quiet! —The little ones. But did you know that overdose can lead to screen dependency disorder?

Children under age 2 should have no screen time. Limit screen time to 1 to 2 hours a day for children over age 2. Despite what ads may say, videos that are aimed at very young children do not improve their development.

I have a 3-year-old daughter, she is fond of using gadgets. It starts when I did my household chores and I have no time to play along with her. Gadgets are one of the main things I give my child every time I become busy or have an appointment and call. I know that it is bad for her, I'm guilty about that. Sometimes, I didn't notice her being dependent on gadgets affects her attitude. That is why I was able to change her screen time. Now, I prefer to give her activities like writing, coloring, drawing, and some educational activities than do some gadgets.

What exactly screen dependency disorder?

According to research, screen dependency disorder (SDD) is a disorder that can cause insomnia, backaches, weight gain, eye problems, and headaches. It can also cause poor nutrition. According to Dr. Aric Sigman, one of the authors of the research paper, "Associations are emerging between screen dependency disorders (SDD) such as Internet Addiction Disorder and specific neurogenetic polymorphisms, abnormal neural tissue and neural function." screen dependency disorder Kids today are very much dependent on gadgets. But screen dependency disorder can be avoided! Just disciplined. He added, "Intensive routine exposure to certain screen activities during critical stages of neural development may alter gene expression resulting in structural, synaptic, and functional changes in the developing brain." This means that children's long-term brain function may be affected because they are at an age where their brain function is developing. Even brain damage is also possible. Screen dependency disorder (SDD) is compared to other vices or addictions so it is worrying. No parent wants their child to be addicted to anything that can be with them. So, moms and daddies, you need to be aware of how long your child's screen time is every day. Is it just right or is it too much? Their dependence on smartphones or gadgets just so they don't get bored has a bad effect on their growth.

Important tips about your child's screen time:

Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to your child's screen time to prevent screen dependency disorder:

1. Do not let them become overly dependent on screentime just to keep them from getting bored. Encourage them to play outside or with real toys.

2. Babies 18 months and under should not be used by smartphones or even any gadgets.

3. Be sure to choose a high-quality TV show for your child. Always be with them when watching videos, especially when they are online.

4. Limit your child's screen time. Do not exceed one or two hours when your child is over two years old.

According to experts, SDD can impact your kid’s behavior. Screen addicted kids have shown up with problematic behavior like withdrawal symptoms including no interest in outside or indoor activities. They might even lie about the duration of their mobile usage and despite all the hazards, they might continue with the same. Experts said that those who suffer from SDD are perhaps, diagnosed with the microstructural and volumetric differences in both, white and grey portions of their brain.

Nowadays, gadgets have advantages and disadvantages for users (kids, adults) depends on how and where they used it. As a mom, I need to guide my child by using gadgets and need to limit her to avoid some conflict in their growth and development.