Question: What does connection and emotions have to do with my kids' excessive use of electronics?
Answer: Consuming electronic media can be educational depending on content and interactivity. It can also lead to many problems when it's used excessively, or if its used as an avoidance tool to replace dealing with tough emotions. Screen-time can also handicap connecting in person, socializing, and release of toxins and stress hormones via physical activity or being out in nature.
Studies show that the "quick fix" of dopamine release associated with some video games, or even smartphone usage can cause addictive brain patterns, anxiety, and depression. Its important to offer repetitive alternative experiences to developing brains so that negative habits don't take root.
Using interoceptive techniques and brain-body-emotional balance, the workshop curriculum offers intentional activities that promote the following:
Building rapport and creating a community where sharing feelings is valued and safe.
Creating awareness of choices around screen-time and how it could impact the relationship between self and others.
Providing insight into feelings in relation to choices and behaviors.
Creating positive feelings of connection and experiences that help the brain and body get realigned and release stress.
Providing psychoeducation regarding how electronics motivate choices and behavior.
Providing opportunities to reflect on how being present and in tune with our bodies can help us make different choices.
Developing empathy and encouraging emotional growth.
Developing awareness of self-regulating skills such as delayed gratification or gratitude.
Planting the seed for loving self and respecting others Reinforcing the power of pause in moments of discomfort and pushing through.
Highlighting the importance of doing hard things and feeling good about ourselves when we meet responsibilities vs. doing the quick dopamine-seeking activities that leave us empty inside afterwards.
Gaining confidence that we can do hard things, and get through discomfort in order to achieve our goals.
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