Children can experience tech tantrums for a few different reasons, most of which revolve around what is happening in their brains while they're interacting with digital content and what occurs when that interaction is interrupted.
In the younger years, children don’t deal well with having fun, goal-oriented activities abruptly disrupted, especially when these activities are as stimulating and rewarding as those online tend to be. The tools used by today’s game designers and video creators are so advanced that disengaging from their content can be exceptionally difficult, even for self-aware adults!
The three steps to tech tantrum taming
1. Set a limit before screen time starts
Children are optimistic thinkers, often overestimating how long they’ll be allowed to use their devices, so it goes without saying that when their expectation of screen time is three hours, and yours is 30 minutes, there’s going to be some disappointment from at least one party. Establish clear limits on screen time before your child dives into their digital realms. This not only sets realistic expectations but also nurtures their self-regulatory skills.
2. Give a ten-minute alert
It would be unrealistic to assume that at the end of your child's screen time, they will simply put their device down. Given how technology use stimulates the brain, an abrupt end to screen time can be emotionally and psychologically jarring. Provide a ten-minute warning, allowing them to adjust their expectations and mentally prepare for the impending conclusion. Once the ten minutes are up, sit with them while they’re on their device to see what they’re up to. If they're playing a game or watching a video, and it looks like they're close to finishing, let them finish, even if it takes another five minutes or so. We all feel satisfied when we can complete a task, so allowing them that little bit of extra time to do this can be helpful.
3. Have a transition activity ready to go
Transitioning from the captivating world of the screen to reality can be challenging. To help things go more smoothly, prepare a transition activity while your child is still on their device, informing them of what's next when you give them their ten-minute alert. To refocus their attention and minimize the effects of sensory overload, consider centering the activity around physical movement that your child enjoys, like taking the dog for a walk or even just a quick three-minute dance party rather than homework or a chore (which is unlikely to help alleviate a tech tantrum).
Taming the tech tantrum requires a blend of clear communication, mutual expectations, and a strategic transition. As parents, we play a crucial role in guiding our children through the digital landscape, ensuring that our children's screen time is not only enjoyable but also balanced.