Families need to play an aware and planned role in reducing excessive mobile phone use among children and teenagers under 18. The first step is to set fixed times for phone use. Rules can be made against using phones while studying, eating or sleeping. In particular, children should be encouraged to switch off their phones at least an hour before bed.
Creating other forms of entertainment for children is also important. If they are involved in sport, reading, drawing, music, dance or other creative activities, they will be less drawn to their phones. Giving them more time with family and friends will also help their social connections grow.
Parents must also be mindful of their own behaviour. If children see adults on their phones all the time, they will follow suit. The whole family can agree on a “no-mobile hour”, a time kept free of phones.
Phones can be kept in another room during study time, and apps that limit screen time can be used if needed. Children should also be told, in simple language, about both the benefits of being online and the harm of excessive use.
When a child sticks to a rule, they can be praised or given a small reward. But phones should not be used as the main tool for reward or punishment. Most important of all is to create enjoyable and educational alternatives rather than taking phones away by force. With patience, love and regular guidance, it is possible to bring balance to how children and teenagers use their phones.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report