Bhakti D
Kids always get attracted to moving objects and eventually get addicted to screens and gadgets. Banning electronics totally is not a realistic move given today’s scenario. There are both pros and cons of technology.
Today’s kids are tech savvy and fast learners. Like my son learnt so many things, like identifying shapes and colours, counting numbers and nursery rhymes by the time he turned 2. When they grow up a bit more, they learn to fiddle with your laptops, mobiles and tablets.
Initially when you see them play with your laptops and mobiles, that amazes you, isn’t it? But gradually it becomes a habit because you know that it will keep your kid entertained for some time so that you can finish your work. When they cry or are not in a mood to eat you hand over the tablet to them and soon you realise your kid has become addicted to gadgets.
Limiting screen time is a tough task for parents. These days kids spend considerable time watching TV. Clinical research study says that kids shouldn’t look at moving screens for more than two hours a day. The more time kids spend in front of screens the more inactive they become and it results in eye problems, hampers brain development, and makes them obese or cranky. Here is how you can avoid all of this.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-green” ]Set your household screen time[/highlight]
You can’t tell your kids to cut down watching TV incase you are watching TV for long hours everyday. Kids consider parents as their role models. So they will follow whatever you do. Don’t text or talk to someone on your mobile while you are eating or driving. Set your household screen-time rules and follow them. It is better if you keep TV and computer out of the bedroom.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-green” ]Spend time together[/highlight]
Kids under two years of age learn best from real world experiences and interactions. So don’t waste precious time in front of a screen and being a couch potato. Go out explore the world and play outdoor games with your kids.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-green” ]Engage in other activities[/highlight]
I think the old way of learning was the best source of learning. Take help of textbooks and not tablets. Tell them stories which will help in developing their imagination. Play music and dance with them. Indulge them in the various household activities. In case of teenagers, motivate them to do physical activities like swimming, running or yoga.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-red” ]Tips for Parents[/highlight]
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-red” ]1. [/highlight]You can watch TV when kids are sleeping or they are not at home. It will definitely work out in cutting down screen limit.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-red” ]2. [/highlight]Keep Television away from kids
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-red” ]3. [/highlight]Keep your smart phone, tablet or iPod away from kids. Maybe allow them to play for some time, later keep the devices in your cupboard.
[highlight highlightColor=”highlight-lightblue” ]Conclusion[/highlight]
Don’t stop them from using gadgets else they will lag behind and feel the peer pressure. Specify some time limit to use these gadgets. Lastly you can’t ignore the positive side of these electronic devices.
