Is too much technology turning your kid into a digital drug addict? Expert thinks so

When it comes to digital technology, how much is too much for young children?

Kids are getting cell phones, tablets, laptops, Xboxes, and other digital technology at a younger and younger age. They’re using the technology in classes at school, then coming home and using it more.

Read more: Why I’m putting my kids through iPad rehab

Expert calls addictive technology ‘digital heroin’

Psychotherapist and author Dr. Nicholas Kardaras has written about how addictive technology can be for children, in fact he calls it “digital heroin.”

Kardaras said the sensory overload of digital technology can have a negative effect on the brain development of young children. He said it can lead to depression, anxiety, and other behavioral disorders, like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Kardaras said the brains of tech addicted kids look similar to those of drug users.  He suggested waiting until children are at least 10, before allowing them to use all the digital devices that are so prevalent these days.

Other groups, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, have said education programs and limited amounts of screen time can benefit children.

Read more: New way to monitor and cut off a kid’s screen time

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