We live in an era of massive technological upheaval. Growing up, our kids are going to inherit a digital world. Digital screens are already invading their lives. We cannot deny their utility. But these screens have the potential to do more harm than good, especially in the case of kids. How do we combat this? Where do we draw the line? An effective strategy to deal with too much screen time is the need of the hour. This initiative, without doubt, has to be driven by parents.
Don’t turn to it as an escape mechanism
There is a strong tendency among parents to turn to screens for calming down wailing babies or occupying young kids while getting other stuff done. Ever been there? Whatever may be the reasons, it is time we put an end to this. We have to realise that the greater dangers posed by this habit tower over the small momentary gains that we make. Time with iPads, TV or mobile phones should not be used as a diversion with kids.
Communicate and lead by example
Your children should not view reduced screened time as a punishment. As a parent, it is your responsibility to educate them about the dangers of excessive screen time. That is easier said than done, isn’t it? There is something that you can do about it. When you pull out your phone every 2 minutes to reply to a text or check your feed, know that the introspective and impressionable eyes of your toddlers are on you. First of all, set an example by showing your reduced dependence on screens for entertainment. Only then will your children be able to fully appreciate it when you tell them about the dangers of too much time with gadgets.
Limits and Monitoring
Kids might not be able to handle technology in a mature way. So, it is completely ok for parents to monitor their digital activity. Asking for their digital passwords is not violating their privacy but only ensuring that they are safe in the digital world. Filter the content – video games, websites, movies and so on – that your child is exposed to. Set limits to screen time and follow them without fail.
Screen Ban Zones
Within your home, create zones where screens are not allowed. Once these zones are identified do not be lenient on the rules. The dining table and your kid’s bedroom should definitely be declared as screen-free zones. The former should be devoted for meals and conversation. Young kids should not be allowed to use their gadgets in their bedrooms as this can interfere with their sleep but more importantly because it offers less chance for parental monitoring.
Other ways to have fun
The reason why many youngsters get addicted to gadgets is because of the false belief that there can be no other source of entertainment. As parents, we need to prove them wrong with regard to this matter. Try to inculcate in your kids a reading habit or an interest in a sport. Show them how refreshing spending time outside can be. Make them feel that by spending a lot of time on their gadgets they are actually losing out on a lot of interesting stuff.
Avoiding too much screen time is of utmost importance for the cognitive, social, emotional and physical development of children. As such it is high time that we as responsible parents stand up, take notice and act to counter the situation at hand. For their better future let us teach our kids that there is a lot more to this world than their gadgets.
Exam Smart Tips
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Exam Smart Tip #3 – Establishing Routines!
Exam Smart Tip #4 – Let’s Read Carefully!
Exam Smart Tip #5 – Beating the Exam Fever!
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Exam Smart Tip #8 – Taking Stress out of Tests
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