ADHD & Aspergers: Alternatives to screen time

Over the past few years, we have become more reliant on technology. We have been defaulting to using electronics to entertain our kids. It’s easy to hand them a device to keep them quiet and to occupy themselves. However, an overabundance of technology can be harmful to a child’s development, especially kids with ADHD and ASD. These children already struggle with social interactions and continual dependence on electronic devices hinders their growth in this area.

Our previous blog, ADHD & Aspergers: Managing Screen Time, goes into detail about the benefits of managing screen time and strategies for decreasing its usage in your home. To check out some of these strategies, check out our blog!

Activities to do instead of using electronics:

1.    Have your child help you cook dinner.

2.    Have dinner with the family together at the table, with no devices.

3.    Do a family activity such as:

a.    Bowling

b.    Bike riding

c.    Hiking

d.    Going to museums

4.    Encourage them to pursue their interests such as:

a.    Practicing sports

b.    Painting, drawing

c.    Practicing music

d.    Dancing

Here are some fun activities to do in Charlotte!

–    Sky Zone/Big Air

–    Discovery Place

–    ImaginOn

–    Carowinds

–    Sea Life Aquarium

–    Lazy 5 Ranch

–    Charlotte Nature Museum

–    Matthews Playhouse

–    Goldmining at Wells Fargo History Museum

Children respond better to directions when they are told what they CAN do instead of what they CAN’T do. Keeping this in mind, give them options for activities that are allowed in that moment instead of using electronic devices. Giving them options to choose from allows them some control and provides them an opportunity to practice their decision-making skills!

Brainstorm activities together as a family to best suit your needs! These activities can be things that you all do together or for your child to do individually. More interaction with your child will give them opportunities to spend more quality time with you, practice their communication and social skills, and you both might learn something new about each other!

Some of the benefits of spending more quality time with your child are:

–    Fewer behavioral concerns

–    Better communication

–    Better performance in school

–    Stronger bond between parents and children

–    Greater self-esteem/self-confidence

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