You know that people can get "addicted" to social media or video games when you have gadgets like smartphones providing a "screen timelimit" function. And it is true for kids who can get obsessive — the World Health Organization has included “gaming disorder” in its draft of the latest International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Could “gadget addiction” be far behind?

What is gadget addiction?

According to a study by the University of Michigan, gadget addiction happens when “screen use causes problems in other areas of life or has become an all-consuming activity,” as Sarah Domoff, the lead author of the study, says. What are the possible signs?

According to the same study, a red flag is when a child is unable to control his usage of gadgets or when he can’t adhere to limits set by a parent with regards to how long he can spend online. Another is a loss of interest in activities that don’t involve technology. Another sign is when technology-related things seem to preoccupy his thoughts even when he is not using a gadget. 

How to prevent gadget addiction

There is no actual disorder called gadget addiction, but excessive use can happen easily with serious repercussions. (One mom blamed her child's seizures for the excessive use of gadgets. Read that story here.) The first step is to make sure they don't stare at their devices all day. Here are a few tips that encourage outdoor play and activity-based learning (it all means more quality time as a family!).

1. Indulge in activity-based learning.

Kids learn best when they are allowed to take part in activities that engage their senses. For instance, this box from Oli’s Boxship, which contains materials kids can use to make items like homemade candles and lemonade, will help your child understand the concepts of hot and cold.

 

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