Cell phones, video games, and computers make our lives richer. Yet, they are also wreaking havoc on children and teens who are not able to use them in a healthy way, leading to problems at home, school, and in the community.

Youth who are escaping into an electronic world are missing valuable opportunities to develop the skills required for successful relationships and adult careers.

Children and teens with a mental health diagnosis such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, or depression are particularly vulnerable to electronic addiction. But it can negatively impact any young person.

The online world is seductive and often easier to navigate for children who are shy, introverted, or bullied. If you are concerned about your child's use of electronics, this book will show you:

• Why electronics are so addicting
• How to determine if your child has a problem with electronics
• What are the crucial social skills that can't be developed online and ways you can foster them
• Why kids with special needs are especially vulnerable
• What are the proven strategies for prevention and intervention of electronic addiction for children from preschool through college

Praise for the book:

"Clear and convincing evidence of how and why the use of electronic media has insidiously captured the minds of our children and held them hostage from friends, family and the joys of meaningful living." (Raymond Akridge, president of Education Leadership, Inc)

"Full of expert advice, wisdom and a wealth of helpful suggestions, this is a must-read for every parent who has a child living in today's world." (Denise Simon, author of Parenting in the Spotlight: How to raise a Child Star Without Screwing Them Up)

"Dr. Berk has written the first parent-friendly guide addressing specific prevention and intervention steps and strategies for dealing with the ever-growing, debilitating electronic addictions affecting children of all ages." (Barrie G. Galvin, therpaist, OTR/L & Associates)