Dad vs. Device: New Children's Book Tackles Screen Fixation

As children put pen to paper for their letters to Santa, chances are there is a screen on that list: an iPod, LeapFrog, NintendoDS, or smartwatch. When they’re not getting a new piece of tech, kids are wishing for a computer game or XBox under the tree.

In “Turn That Off And Play With Me!”, psychologist Michael Oberschneider tackles a growing screen fixation among children.

Games and devices are targeted at younger kids, and parents can be spotted in many restaurants and stores handing their own devices to fussy children as a distraction.

“We’re teaching our kids to use these screens more than they should,” Oberschneider tells Patch.

Research shows that too much screen time for children and teens contributes to obesity, ADHD, learning problems and emotional and social problems, according to Oberschneider.

In “Turn That Off,” a little boy tries to pry his family away from their devices. The book encourages children to proactively unplug, and Oberschneider hopes parents learn to provide a balanced approach to their own screen time as an example.

“As parents, modeling healthy screen time is essential since our children look to us to understand how to behave,” he said.

With the holidays here, Oberschneider had a few other tips for parents:

“Take Control” - At the start of winter break, parents should set expectations on family time and the allowed screen time. “Kids are going to have a lot more downtime,” Oberschneider said. “It’s really up to parents, on the front end, to agree upon how much TV and game time during the holidays.”

“Game With Your Kids” - Playing together or getting involved can open a dialogue. Have your kids teach you how to play Minecraft or shoot zombies with them. “The technology so often works against us with our kids,” Oberschneider said. “It can also be an opportunity to connect more.”

Written for children ages 3 to 8, “Turn That Off and Play WIth Me is available at Amazon.

Oberschneider has handed out more than 600 copies to peers and educators. “I’ve learned this is going to be a community service project,” he said.

More from Dr. Oberschneider at Patch:

• Is it Okay to Spank Your Child?
• Pot Posts on Facebook Scare Parents
• Co-Parenting Through Divorce
• Understanding Teen Suicide