Screen Time
With the advancement in technology, there are more and more screens that children can come into contact with than ever before, from computers and video games to TV and mobile devices.
Screen time is the time that children spend on these devices and it comes with benefits as well as drawbacks. It is therefore the role of parents to strike a balance when setting the rules of screen time and this can be a challenge even at the best of times.
PROS
According to studies, children who spend time playing video games improve their decision making skills as well as their concentration because the games involve focusing and making decisions. Playing video games also require finely tuned spatial skills which improve hand eye coordination.
Watching educational TV shows has a positive effect on learning, especially if the parents are co-viewing with the children. This makes TV an educator as well as an entertainer.
Mobile devices have made it easy for parents to keep track of their children. They can call or text to find out where they are. Parents can also install tracking software that can enable them to know where the children are without the need for texting or calling.
Technology has evolved the way learning is done. Teachers today use technology to enhance self directed learning while promoting student centred learning. Children who have grown-up using technology find it easier to use self directed learning and it comes automatically unlike traditional learning when it was teacher centred and explicitly taught.
CONS
It is no surprise that a lot of screen time is a contributing factor to obesity and sleep disturbances. This is partly caused by the many hours that children spend in one position while playing games or watching TV. Spending too much time in front of the TV also hinders school performance.
Injuries such as iPad finger, blackberry thumb and carpal tunnel syndrome are other effects of too much screen time. New research is starting to show the negative effects of screens on eyes and the increase in eyestrain all of which may have long term effects.
Time spent on the internet can be detrimental as well. Children must become aware of responsible digital citizenship and be careful of the information they are putting on the world wide web. Today, some universities and employers investigate their applicants online profile and digital footprint and an admission offer may be revoked if the information they have is inappropriate.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Quite simply we are living in a very exciting age of technological advancements. We are also living in a world that has very real consequences for your actions. Monitor screen time, promote responsible digital citizenship and keep track of your child's digital footprint.
Remember, children learn from observing, so become a positive role model!
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