If your child starts to rage when screen time ends, ask them to go to their quiet spot until they feel better. If necessary, gently pick up a younger child or lead them by the hand. Tell them you'll be glad to see them again when they're ready to reconnect.

If your child is acting out physically, don't keep the tantrum going by suggesting they punch a pillow (or anything else). Studies show it's more effective to guide your child toward something that burns physical energy, but has a simple focus. For example, researchers found that tossing a pillow in the air and challenging kids to bat it in a new direction helped work off momentary tension.

At times, older kids may resist tech limits even more fiercely than younger ones. This might call for different strategies that track closely with your child's personality and interests. You could offer to join them for a quick run, a few minutes shooting baskets or a frisbee session in the park. If they love music, let your teen take over the smart speaker with a 5-minute blast of their favorite track (dancing optional).

These are all examples of a technique called "trading up," which moves people from one favorite activity to another they like even more. Try it with younger kids, too: offer a beloved book, cuddle time with the family pet or a small chore that makes them feel part of the group.

When children (and adults) are immersed in virtual activities, they're literally in a different world. You can help build a bridge back to reality by entering the room or sitting down near your child, quietly observing what they're doing. When you see signs that they're willing to engage, offer a warm smile of encouragement. This helps them move from the virtual space they're in to the here-and-now of being with you.

Difficulty switching gears does not automatically mean your child is hopelessly hooked on tech. Still, it's important to maintain a steady sense of your child's screen time and how it affects their behavior. Consult your child's pediatrician if you're concerned about meltdowns that happen nearly every time your child is asked to stop scrolling, watching or playing—no matter how thoughtfully you manage the situation.

Watch for changes in a child's sleep, hygiene, eating habits or social activities that seem related to excessive screen time. Call your pediatrician if you observe difficulty handling frustration or boredom without screens. (For example, they can't tolerate a short car trip or a few minutes waiting for a restaurant meal without demanding a tablet or phone.) Also be alert for signs your child is withdrawing and isolating themselves from friends and family to spend more time online.

Remember, pediatricians are mindful of tech challenges in family settings. They can help you sort out what's typical from signs that kids may need extra support.

For more information, go to HealthyChildren.org.

____

Jenny Radesky, MD, FAAP, is the David G. Dickinson Collegiate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School. She is Director of the Division of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics and focuses clinically on autism, neurodiversity, and advocacy. Her NIH-funded research examines the use of mobile and interactive technology by parents and young children, parent-child relationships and child social-emotional development. She authored the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policy statements " Media and Young Minds " and " Digital Advertising to Children " and is a co-Medical Director of the SAMHSA-funded AAP Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health.

©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.