From the author: The article was published in the magazine “Hello, first-grader!” The computer is increasingly becoming part of the lives of people of all ages, including children. It is indispensable in training, education and social life. However, at the same time, the computer increasingly leads to serious problems, one of which is computer addiction. At the moment, there are no proven programs for the treatment of computer addiction, as well as in-depth scientific research into this problem. Usually, computer addiction becomes a clear problem in children during adolescence, starting from 12-15 years. But it is important to take the necessary measures to prevent its development in primary school, before interest in the computer becomes a problem. Computer addiction is usually divided into two types – Internet addiction and gaming addiction. In most cases, gambling addiction is more common at an early age. Parents are faced with a dilemma: if they completely prohibit their child from using the computer, he is unlikely to feel comfortable among his classmates, he will feel insecure and different from everyone else. But if you are allowed to play constantly, then your interest in technology can develop into a serious illness. The main signs of addiction are as follows: The child loses interest in other activities, the social circle is reduced. Communication with other children is reduced only to computer games, a narrow group of players is formed or ceases to be of interest at all. There is a gradual loss of contact with parents: the child strives less and less to communicate and withdraws into to himself. The child begins to deceive, does not keep promises, strives to get what he wants by any means. He can react nervously to any restrictions, become very worried, and become irritable. Becomes passive in real life. Loses control over time and over his behavior.. Feels guilty before his parents because of the games, but at the same time joy when playing. How to protect your child from computer addiction? Firstly, there is a limit on the time that the child spends on the computer. When controlling time, it is important that the restrictions are clear and specific for the whole family, i.e. so that the child cannot “beg” time from you and circumvent your conditions. But we cannot say that the main reason for the development of addiction is the exposure of the child’s psyche to various influences and the lack of restrictions on the part of parents. Children often “run away” to the computer from family problems and communication problems. Therefore, it is important that the child feels comfortable at home, so that he enjoys spending time with the family. Don't focus only on learning and games, communicate, play, spend time together, even if you are not happy with your child's results. Try to help your child establish relationships with peers, communicate with him on various topics. Talk about games, too. Often parents are hostile to any games, and as a result, conflict can arise in the family even without problems with addiction as such. Here it is important not to lose contact with the child, not to separate his life “there” and “in reality.” It’s better when you know what’s going on in your child’s life, so it’s important to talk to him about his interest in the computer. This will help you understand your child’s needs, assess the situation in a timely manner, and not lose emotional closeness with him. One of the reasons for the development of addiction is lack of self-confidence. Therefore, support and celebrate your child’s achievements so that he feels important in the real world and can be proud of his real successes. Another problem with going to the computer is the lack of contacts with the world, no matter how strange it sounds. In a modern metropolis, parents often cannot afford to spend a lot of time with their child, play and walk with him. Without such an opportunity to explore the world outside of school, where this sometimes becomes a routine duty, the child looks for other ways to master it, albeit synthetic ones. IN.