In today’s world, it’s not us who control these computers; instead, this electronic equipment controls us. The unlimited fondness for technology like mobile phones, laptops, and tablets has increased daily, especially among children.
But are you aware of the hazardous effects caused by the overuse of these technologies?
NO, most of us are unaware that we are more likely worshipping these robotics.
Let me explain;
- Before going to sleep, it is necessary to check our mobile phones.
- After waking up, instead of praying or going out for a morning walk, we spend almost one-hour scrolling through social media.
- Even at the dining table, we can’t eat without television.
So, it’s not wrong to say that we are becoming slaves to these technologies.
SCREEN TIME FOR KIDS
Our children and young nation who supposed to be creative and learn new skills. Rather than that, they are becoming addicted to their mobile phones and laptops.
According to The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- No screen tie for children younger than 18 to 24 months.
- Only one hour of technology is recommended for children aged 2-5.
- For kids six and older than this, a safe time limit must be set for their screen time.
WHO ARE SUPPOSED TO BE BALMED?
- PARENTS
To avoid their children’s outbursts and mood changes, most parents make them addicted to these computerized things.
- COVID 19
During the pandemic period, when children have nothing to do during quarantine, they spend more time on their mobile phones.
Practically it is not their fault: Their schools and amusement parks all are shut down during that time.
So, they are left with no option.
A survey in June 2020 found that approximately 62 per cent of American parents reported that their children had been exposed to electronic devices for over 4 hours per day. It was a result of Covid 19.
DAMAGING EFFECTS IN CHILDREN
Countless problems are associated with the overuse of the technology, but only some of them are listed below:
- No physical activity
- Disturbance in the sleep cycle
- Weight issue; LEADS TO OBESITY
- Behavioural change
- Spend less time with their family and friends
- Anxiety, depression
- Academic loss
- Loss of creativity
- Become more violent
HOW TO DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM
EDUCATE YOUR CHILD
- Try to be friendly with your kids and educate them about the harmful effects of the screen on the human body. It will develop self-consciousness in them regarding misuse of technology.
LIMIT YOUR OWN SCREEN TIME
- Also, restrict your own screen time. Children adopt most of their habits from their surroundings. It’s your duty to provide them with a healthy environment.
EXTRA CURRICULUM ACTIVITIES
- Please support them in learning new things. Engage them in swimming, dancing, jogging, horse riding or any other activity that your child love to do. It helps him to grow more effectively, both physical and mentally.
- Encourage other recreational activities, like playing with friends and family and visiting an amusement park.
SHARE SCREEN WITH CHILDREN
- Share screen with your kids. Watch an informative documentary with your child and have an informative discussion about it.
TIME LIMIT FOR KIDS
- Set time limits for the screen time. If they follow these limits, award them as a gesture of appreciation. Give them ten extra minutes next time or their favourite snack or food as a reward.
YOUTUBE KIDS
- Install YouTube kids on your children’s phone. It has a preinstalled filter that helps children avoid harmful content on the internet.
NO SCREEN DURING MEALTIME
- Don’t allow any screen exposure during mealtime. Alternatively, discuss your child’s whole day, how he spent it, and what he does in school. It helps to distract their intention from television.
CONCLUSION
Although it is difficult to change a child’s habitual behaviour, there are ways to make them more positive. Children cannot understand the damaging effects of these devices on their characters, so it’s our duty to protect them from this harsh online world.
