It is true that parents are becoming more aware of our kids screen time. The negative effects of technology on kids has caused concern among parents and carers.
However, as more research is being conducted we are beginning to understand that technology can be good for children as long as it is used correctly.
Despite the growing research, it is easy to get caught up in all the different opinions about kids screen time and it’s negative implications effects on children.
Tech Myth#1: Tech will create a better friendship
It is true that we rely on technology to keep us connected. We use Whatsapp, video chats and social media to know what is happening in our friend’s lives.
However, as we become connected digitally many of us still can feel lonely in the real world. Building friendship takes time, energy and effort.
Online connections should be used to strengthen real-world relationships, but should not be replacing them.
If your child has made a new friend online either through video games, social media or any other platform then try to arrange for a meet up in the real world.
If you want your child to have a healthy social life, give them the chance to socialize out of technology by encouraging face-to-face interactions.
Tech Myth #2: Technology will make my child smarter
Educational technology is becoming increasingly common. Schools are introducing laptops and tablets in classrooms.
While these gadgets and devices can be a good learning aid they should not be replacing traditional learning styles.
Holding a pen and listening to a teacher speak can teach a child soft skills like patience, deep think, and self-regulation.
While Google, Alexa, and Siri gives your child answers they need immediately, a book teaches your child how to derive to that answer through critical thinking.
Technology should be used in moderation. It should not replace real-life interaction and learning.
Also, be aware of any app that is labeled as educational. Read the reviews of the app and use it yourself before giving it to your child.
Tech Myth #3: Toddlers need less screen time than older children
As your kids become older and spend more time on their devices, we tend to forget that they still require strong real connections.
Older children should be taught how to self-regulate. Like toddlers, they need time outside, need to exercise and family time.
Encourage your teens to unplug and stay connected with the real world.
You can help your teens self-regulate by setting some screen time rules at home. For example, no devices in the bedroom among many other rules.
Tech Myth #4: Stop focusing on screen time and more on content.
Among all the conflicting opinions about screen time, here is one I tend to see a lot. It is true that content is very important, but also the time spent on devices should be moderated.
If you have younger kids then watch with them so you know what they are watching and you can turn this into a fun interactive session.
For example, when my child is listening to Wheel On The Bus rhyme, I will pause the video in between and show her the vipers, the wheels on the bus and even point to the color of the bus.
Do not ignore screen time and always strive for a balanced offline and online life.
Tech Myth #5: All tech time is the same
We tend to think that all tech-time is the same. We forget that spending one-hour scrolling through social media mindlessly is different than spending an hour doing programming.
Try to understand how your child is spending their time on their devices. If your child is using it to just watch other people’s content online then find a way to encourage them to create their own content. This can bring out the creativity in them that they never know existed.
If your child likes to spend time creating content, programming, or even learning new things then try to be involved in what they are doing. For example, ask them questions about it and show some interest in their hobby.
Do not dismiss what your child is doing with technology without understanding where their interest lies.
Not all tech time is the same.
Tech Myth #6: Introducing kids to technology at an early age will prepare them for the future
Many parents are introducing tech at an early age with the belief that it will help them in a tech-driven future.
Unfortunately, this ignores the soft skills a child needs to learn at a young age. No matter how “Black Mirror” the future can be, your kids will still need to develop emotional intelligence that cannot be taught by technology.
To learn interpersonal skills, your kids need a real human connection. This is why researchers like Dr. Tim Lynch, recommends parents wait until their kids reach Kindergarten before introducing them to computing in any form.
Before teaching your child how to use an iPad, teach them how to hold a pencil. Using an iPad can be learned at any age.
Don’t forget that all the devices around us are made so anyone can learn it. Hence it is not rocket science. Eventually, your kids will learn how to use it.
Tech Myth #7 :Video games are bad for your child
I have read countless articles about the negative impact of video games. Games like Fortnite and many more is being criticized for promoting violence
There is no doubt that even the child psychology community is conflicted about the effects of video games.
However, not all video games is violent. There are games like Minecraft and Roblox that promote critical thinking. It is about selecting the right games for your kids that can turn the experience of gaming into a positive one for their children.
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Just like television and books, children can benefit from parental involvement. Join your kids in their gaming world, regardless of their choice of game.
Kids can benefit from parents who appreciate their achievement when completing a game. Parents can also be more understanding when a child wishes to complete a difficult game.
Video games can be used as a learning tool and more importantly, it can be used to bond with your child. Try picking up the console with your child and see how much fun you can have as a family.
