The dilemma of usage of electronic devices with young children
After a tiring yet fruitful weekend with the kids, Gordon (10 years old) and Emma (7 years old), this is my stand on the burning question that’s etched in every parent’s mind. Electronic devices, yes or no?
In this digital age and time, even toddlers appear to be handling screen swipes with a level of skill that would make adults jealous. Heck, I saw a 5-year-old owning a better mobile device than I do. Electronic devices have an indisputable impact on our children’s lives in this fast-paced environment. But like with everything worthwhile, moderation is essential. Today, I’ll explore the highs and lows of technological devices in our children’s lives in my personal experience.
It’s easy to give someone a tablet and believe it to be a contemporary Mary Poppins. But let’s face it: nothing can match the charm of actual parental attention more than an electronic gadget. Youngsters require affection, joy, and an explanation of why the sky is blue, not just a moving picture on a screen. But yet, more than often, we take the easy way out. We believe it to be a means to a faster end. That they need a proper answer than our opinions.
Imagine a society in which children are essentially left on their own. Unsupervised screen time carries genuine concerns, from improper content to sleep difficulties.
Not every treasure in the huge app jungle is made of gold. It’s critical for your child’s growth that they use the appropriate apps. Many apps nowadays are well disguised and would fool even the brightest of us.
The question is whether to control or not to control. Features for parental control can have two sides. They offer a safety net, but they might also prevent a child from becoming independent. It might also fester into a web of distrust. I have a friend whose kid refused a mobile phone from him because she knew that it would give him a reason to check her chats and stuff.
The famed screen time disputes are a well-known story in contemporary parenting. Parents, do not be afraid; I have tried-and-true many tactics to get through this virtual minefield, and I found a stick-and-carrot method works best. They get “screen time” for every household chore and every piece of homework they do. And conversely, they also get time struck off if they fail to meet certain criteria. In a way, it makes them think about risk and rewards, efforts, and outcomes. I even see the two of them barter screen time for snacks or toys between the two of them.
Educational technology has immense potential for cognitive growth. Do they, however, live up to the hype? As a person from the 80s, Nintendo consoles played a big part in honing my skills in terms of reaction, common sense, and reasoning. I can't say the same about games nowadays.
As we get to the end of our digital device debate, let’s pause to think. Electronic gadgets are here to stay, but moderation is essential. We can lead our kids through the digital maze with humor and wisdom if we embrace the good, minimize the bad, and promote open communication.