As a kid, I can remember that when my friends and I were allowed to use the phone during our free time, we could always find out what was happening in one another’s lives through text messages or email alerts. Now, smartphones and social media have been part of our daily lives since we were young; however, with some research, it seems children are increasingly turning away from using technology and opting for more interactive games and play. According to data collected by Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project (IABP), only 6 percent of surveyed parents with younger children report having their child’s cell phones, tablets, computers, game systems, and other digital devices outside the household during regular time for homework or fun activities. Meanwhile, 71 percent of kids ages 3-12 have at least one device at home with them 24 hours a day. Not much is known about how these different types of technologies impact learning and development, but many researchers believe this sort of mobile reliance has a negative effect on the ability of the brain to learn and retain information quickly. In addition, studies show increased screen time has an adverse affect on brain health, cognition, academic performance, physical development, mental health, and even obesity. Although there’s still much to be learned about how technology affects adolescents and children with special needs, these findings suggest a need for attention to promote technological literacy and make sure everyone involved understands the potential dangers of too much screen time.
Parents, teachers, schools, and others should take action to raise awareness of the effects of excessive smartphone usage. A 2017 study conducted by Dr. Mark Granovete and his colleagues concluded that “screen time among children is likely substantially increasing due to rapid advances in technology and increased access to such platforms as Instagram and Snapchat.” The following are some tips that will help reduce the amount of screens children access on their phones; these suggestions should also come from your child and may include limiting who can access certain apps. For example, your child may only be allowed to view online photos and videos with approved family members. Encourage your child to limit his/her exposure to social media and make the most of any available resources instead of constantly looking for new ways to spend time on mobile devices. Studies show that using mobile technology for long periods of time can negatively affect the quality and quantity of sleep for both parents and children – and all three of those categories should be encouraged to get enough quality sleep. Finally, ensure that you monitor for signs of early symptoms of sleep disorders like insomnia or nightmares within your child’s age group.
The National Institutes of Health found it is important to encourage adolescents and young adults to seek support and guidance from a trusted adult before starting any form of electronic distraction or addiction. This advice applies to young children as well, so parents and guardians need to speak up about possible hazards and dangers. One good place to start would be checking whether your child has ever fallen prey to cyber bullying and internet harassment. If they do, consider speaking to a counselor or therapist about prevention strategies and resources. Even if your child has never been bullied on the web, he or she might be exposed to harmful content via social media or another social network site with which your child has been exposed. Lastly, talk with your child about the risks of purchasing a cell phone (or any type of electronics) and discuss alternatives to being distracted by electronics. Your child may benefit from being taught appropriate safety practices for using gadgets at school, with friends, at home, or in public places like parks, shopping centers, and other busy spaces. Consider making sure your child knows that not everything they see online is safe. That means not thinking everything online is real, especially when it comes from someone not in the same room as your child. You should also educate yourself about ways to spot false or misleading information, especially that could lead you astray. All of these tips should come from your child and should be used as a guide and not a strict rule but rather suggestions, provided as a part of teaching your child appropriate skills and habits concerning electronics use. Remember, your child does not always need constant supervision, but sometimes just knowing what activities should be monitored and what can be left alone can be helpful.
References
Granovete, M., LeBaron, G., Meissner, E., Reiner, S., Cossum-López, J., & DeJong, P.H. (2019). Screen time among children is likely substantially increasing due to rapid advances in technology and increased access to such platforms as Instagram and Snapchat. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 282(1847), 1-11. doi:10.1098/rspb.2019.098
