With the rise of tablets, smartphones, and other screen-based technologies, the average child is more likely to be engaged in screen time than ever before. This trend also comes with new risks that parents must look out for. Parents have a new set of challenges to negotiate, from device distraction to addiction, as their children increasingly rely on small, handheld screens.
There’s no doubt that technology has changed the way we live. We can use our smartphones to find the quickest route to work, check the weather, and keep up with our friends’ lives in real-time. However, there are some dangers that many parents tend to forget about. With screen-based devices, it’s not just our kids who are vulnerable to harm. For parents and caregivers, this can be quite a challenge and an opportunity to teach their children about responsible use of technology.
This article discusses the risks associated with kids’ screens and tips and advice on how to avoid these problems. We also offer parenting practices for the era of screens.
Screens can create risks for physical, emotional, and social health. Children are especially vulnerable to several threats due to their unique neurological, psychological, and developmental processes. As a result, even one-time exposure can have severe consequences for children of all ages.
Some of the most prevalent risks associated with screen sedentary behaviors are:
Screen time obstructs natural daylight and contributes to overall vision problems. Many children diagnosed with myopia or nearsightedness are exposed to excessive amounts of electronic screens.
Watching videos or playing games late at night disrupts the body’s circadian rhythms and affects sleep patterns. This greatly impacts the child’s physical, mental, and emotional health.
Many studies have shown that excessive screen time causes children’s poor eating habits and weight problems. In addition, several studies have shown that obesity is directly correlated with using digital devices.
Screen time interferes with children’s learning experience and hinders their coordination and social skills. This may be since moving around activates the brain and enables people to learn and master new things.
Screen time inhibits children’s social interaction, negatively impacting their emotional development. Children who spend much time in front of screens are more prone to loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, many studies have shown that excessive use of digital devices may increase the chances of children developing autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Children who spend a lot of time using devices are more likely to become addicted to them and develop behavioral problems. In other words, excessive screen time may cause children to lose control of themselves and develop unhealthy behaviors. For example, suppose a child spends too much time playing games on her phone and neglects her physical needs. In that case, they will likely develop an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia.
The rise of tablets and smartphones is directly linked to the decline in children’s academic performance. Studies have shown that screen time may negatively impact children’s ability to pay attention, control impulse, and concentrate.
Young children don’t have the level of critical thinking needed to discern fact from fiction. This makes them prone to misinformation and deception on social media and other means of communication that use screens. For example, a child may be tricked by a computerized character into giving out personal information or bullied into sharing photos.
Children are more exposed to harmful content on screens than they were before. This may put them in danger of seeing the violence unsuitable for their age and inappropriate images and videos.
Children’s screen time makes them more exposed to cyberbullying or other forms of online abuse and harassment than ever before. In fact, they are likelier to cyber-predators and other online threats than adults.
Although modern technology has made many aspects of life easier for adults and children, it also presents its share of risks. In order to keep your kids safe from harm when they are using screens, it is important to ensure that they have the following:
Designate specific times when it is okay to use screens, and ensure they adhere to this schedule. In this way, you will be able to control the number of times children spend in front of digital devices each day.
Since technology keeps kids indoors most of the time, encourage your child to go outside or take part in outdoor activities regularly. This will help them develop their social skills and improve their overall health. Some of these physical activities may include:
Limit the amount of screen time a child has each day by not allowing them to access the devices all at once. Instead, allow them to use it for short periods throughout the day instead of letting them use it at all times. This will help your child discover other ways to express themselves and improve their social skills.
Be aware of what your child is watching. This includes not only TV and games but also social media channels as well. By monitoring the content your child is exposed to, you can identify the risks they may face while on screen and help your child avoid them.
Always be present while your child is using screens. This will allow you to monitor their time spent on screens and the content. Additionally, keeping your kids safe online requires you to monitor the websites, apps, and games they are using.
As much as screen time may be beneficial to your child’s development, it is also important that they remain social. This will help them develop their social skills and improve their overall health. Always encourage your child to connect with friends and family. In addition, you could assign a week or day to discuss different topics with your child.
Be aware of your child’s personality and needs. For example, If you know your child struggles with impulse control, try to keep him away from devices as much as possible. Find the right balance of screen time and physical activities, so your child can manage their emotions, engage in social activities and develop mental health.
You must set a positive example if you want your kid to develop excellent behaviors. Good habits include not only the word “No,” but also other positive things such as:
Don’t buy into all the rules that society tries to impose on you. Instead, make your own rules based on your values and beliefs. Aim to raise a child who is independent and makes their own decisions based on your guidance and values. Make sure your child knows the rules you have set and stick to them.
Ultimately, it’s all about balance. Kids are not meant to be glued to the computer or playing games online all day. They need to have time outside, physical activities, and social interaction. If parents can establish a balance of screen time and other activities in kids’ lives, they will be able to keep their kids safe from the risks associated with too much screen time.
Remember, computers and screens are just tools. Make sure your child uses them wisely and the right tools for the right reasons. The fewer time kids spend on screens, the happier they are as adults.
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