MIGHTY KIDS

GETTING YOUR KIDS TO … “PUT THE PHONE DOWN!”

Ihave two teenagers. So I know all about viral videos, trending hashtags and, of course, cell phone addiction. I’ve watched my kids, my friends and … if

I’m being honest … myself fall prey to it. Addiction is defined as the compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance or activity. And the first step to beating it is admitting you have a problem. “Hello. My name is

Michele Poche, and I’m addicted to my cell phone.” By Michele Robert Poche

Well, believe it or not, some of the best tools for getting your addiction under control come in app form.

OffTime (Android, iOS) is available in a full version (Android) offering filtering and blocking for designated apps, calls, texts, games and websites as well as usage tracking, goal setting and guidance. There is also a light version (iOS) with usage tracking, goal setting and guidance.

Moment (iOS) enables you to send notifications, set daily screen limits for each family member or even shut down the phone once the time limit is exceeded. Set a daily, customizable, screenfree, family dinner period, which sounds an alarm if anyone picks up a phone at that time.

Forest (Android, iOS) invites users to plant virtual seeds that gradually grow into trees. If the app is left for another one, the tree dies. Offering a very different approach to kicking phone addiction, Forest allows its users to compete with others worldwide, earn rewards and even plant real trees in the environment.

Flipd (Android, iOS) offers a more aggressive approach to help you unplug. Dubbed “the Distraction Destroyer,” Flipd allows you to lock the phone’s “distractions” for a set period of time. All downloaded apps and internet browsers will disappear until that time period is over. And there is no way to cheat.

Help! I'm addicted to my cell phone.