FaceTube, IG, TikTok, Oh My!

Digital devices have the same impact as drugs. It’s not a popular sentiment but it’s very true. If you have a teenager you know what I’m talking about. The endless debates pleading begging and threatening our teens over phone use is simply exhausting. While I scream and yell about the use of phones I know this message is falling on deaf ears. Truth is we are all somewhat addicted to our new normal devices.

However is rational human beings we do know that digital devices cause harm. Over the evolution of technology there are several studies that equate use of screen time to the same euphoria the drugs create. Try to take your phone away from your child and ask them to go cold turkey and see the physical toll it takes.

While I have written about this before I still have not found a solution or at least a stable family practice to address phone use. Added to that issue is the challenge of monitoring use with a person who has ASD. On the one hand it is a gateway to unlock society for them. On the other, however, it is an endless-EMPTY form of communication.

I wish I had more sound advice for monitoring social media. For what it is worth-this is what our family is doing combat the digital zombie syndrome!

1. Family game night;
2. Yoga and meditation;
3. Any outdoor activity;
4. Engaged Conversations;
5. Tactile Activities like Baking or cooking

Do what makes sense is our motto. Fighting for our loved one’s independence insures a healthier future – that is the goal!