Numerous studies have drawn negative correlations between screen time and children’s cognitive and behavioural development. Most parents are aware of this and see first-hand the impacts of phones on their child’s ability to learn social skills, focus their attention, and regulate emotional responses. If you share the same concern, read on for the tips on breaking phone addiction:

1. Use apps that limit screen time

If your child is using an iPhone, Apple has this built-in feature Screen Time in the settings that allows you to monitor and limit usage. You can even set a time when access to the device is deactivated to prevent your kid from staying up late. There are also plenty of apps that provide similar functions. Check out this detailed comparison of iOS and Android apps: https://www.airdroid.com/parent-control/best-free-apps-to-limit-screen-time/

2. Turn on the greyscale

Colourful videos and images trigger the pleasure centres of our brains, so removing these from the phone is a great way of making them less appealing. Look for the greyscale or bedtime setting (on an i-Phone: Settings > Accessibility > Daily Accommodations > Colour Filters; on a Samsung: Settings > Digital Wellbeing > Bedtime Mode), which can often be programmed on a timer as an alternative to completely limiting screen time.

3. Make use of positive reinforcement

Get your child to define their own times and circumstances during which they can use their phone. If the usage consistently falls within these limits over 21 days (a suggested number of days needed to form a habit), give them a reward such as a nice meal or a fun outdoor activity. This not only reinforces the accomplishment of sticking with their plan, but it also enables them to appreciate interacting with people. With consistent practice, they’ll be better able to fight the urge to reach for their phone.

Phone addiction is a problem not only faced by young children, but adults too. Just like any other type of addiction, it can be conquered by patience, determination and persistence. Now you’ve read this article, take at least a few moments away from your phone to show your family how easy that can be.