Are Your Children Too Plugged In?

There is a difference between a child that occasionally listens to music on a MP3 player, and one that you have to call and call and call to the dinner table because they are always plugged into something. When you can't think of the last time your child didn't have something in their ears, that's a sign they are too plugged in. Weaning them may not be altogether pleasant - like any withdrawal program. But there are many benefits to getting your child unhooked from this unhealthy habit.

Look at the questions below that your child could raise with you and see how you could respond to them. You'll see that being unplugged is always a sound answer. There is so much more to life than simply being plugged into a machine. Your child should be encouraged to socialize, to be active in sports or creative activities. To be more active than passively plugged in to gadgets or machines.

"But everyone else has a ..." This is a common complaint that you'll hear from children. It isn't necessarily true. Many children do have these devices but parents are unplugging them as fast as they can. Research shows that playing devices that have earphones or earbuds at high volumes can cause permanent hearing loss. Many children simply don't know the difference. Setting some limits is very reasonable and in many ways can feel much better for your child than being this plugged in.

"I want ... for Christmas/birthday/special treat" Many children will ask for an electronic device as a special treat or a birthday gift. There are many other options. Try giving them an experience instead, and they may appreciate this even more. Let them brainstorm about something they'd like to do but haven't had the chance. Maybe horseback riding or silk-screening or jewelry making would be appealing to them. An added benefit to pursuing these activities is that your child may discover a new hobby or interest.

"We have ... at school." Most schools do have computers with internet access that they encourage children to use to research their schoolwork. Children have limited access to the internet at school. Children typically do not see other electronic devices at school.

"I'll pay for it." This one may be harder to argue with, as any enterprising child that earns their own money could theoretically purchase what they want. But then again, you wouldn't want your child purchasing cigarettes, and they are bad for their health. Using these electronic devices in excess can often be bad for their health.

Stand firm and hold the plug in your hand. You'll realize that your children are calmer, focusing more, sleeping better. That they are concentrating more on their schoolwork and their friendships. There are many benefits to being unplugged - and plugged into life!

Nathaly Dedeyan is Co-owner of YourChristianSpace.com, a social networking website specifically for Christian families. A safe, warm and nurturing place to connect with others. http://www.YourChristianSpace.com is an online community where families can have fun, meet new people, hear great music and play fun games. http://www.yourchristianspace.com

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