"Outsmarting Dopamine: Tips for Managing Screen and Sugar Addiction in Kids"

"Anti-dopamine parenting" can help parents manage and limit their children's screen time and sugar intake. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that generates desire and motivation, is triggered by screens and sugary foods. However, studies show that over time, people can end up not liking the activities that trigger big surges in dopamine. Parents can reduce the stress and negative consequences of these dopamine-surging activities by waiting 5 minutes, looking for the "Goldilocks" activities, creating microenvironments, and trying a habit makeover. Enriching a child's life off the screens can also help reduce their dependence on them.