We’re all guilty of it- stayed up too late looking at Social Media like Facebook or Instagram, putting off sleep just looking at post after post. Those late night binges have a term called “vamping.”
“Vamping” is growing into such a widespread occurrence and parents should be concerned over its possible side effects. Sleep deprivation, anxiety, mood changes, and depression are just a few of the risks involved with being plugged in all the time, especially in the evenings and late into the night.
There are a few things parents can do to help with this issue.
- Turn off the phone or computer an hour before bed.
- Keep the devices away from the child while they are in bed.
- Set time limits for phone or computer use.
- Be an example.
This generation is the first ever to be raised with a smart device in hand. As parent we’re just trying to figure this out one day at a time. Kids need to power off in order to develop socially, mentally, and physically. Try giving kids alternatives to the Social Media late nights like-
- Reading a book
- Playing card games or board games
- Writing
- Going for a bike ride or a walk
- Having a conversation
Giving kids boundaries and setting time limits will help ensure a healthy relationship with Social Media and smart devices. Having balance is key in order to raise healthy kids. So unplug and sleep well!
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