How to use gadgets correctly and how time spent at the screen affects the upbringing of children

In the modern digital age, gadgets are an integral part of our daily lives. Although technology offers many advantages, it is important to understand how to use gadgets correctly so that they have a positive impact on the upbringing of our children. Balanced use of screen time and making informed decisions about the use of technology can significantly affect the development and well-being of a child. Here is a guide to help parents navigate the digital space.

The advantages of gadgets in child development

Educational apps and games

Interactive Learning: Educational apps can make learning fun and interactive by helping children learn complex concepts through games and activities.

Skill development: Applications designed to improve language, math and problem solving skills can complement traditional learning, but as a rule, when gadgets get into the hands of children, they are used mainly only as entertainment, and this destabilizes the central nervous system and leads to not the best consequences     

Sedentary lifestyle: Prolonged time spent in front of a screen can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity and related health problems.

Eye strain: Excessive use of screens can cause eye strain, headaches, and sleep disturbances.

Mental health

Attention problems: Excessive use of gadgets can affect concentration and the ability to concentrate on tasks.

Emotional impact: Exposure to inappropriate content or cyberbullying can negatively affect a child's emotional well-being.

Social skills

Limited interaction: Excessive time spent behind the screen can limit face-to-face communication, which will negatively affect the development of social skills.

Isolation: Children may prefer virtual communication to real-life communication, which leads to a feeling of isolation.

Recommendations for healthy use of gadgets

Set limits

Rules for the use of screen time: Set clear rules regarding screen time, for example, limit its use to one hour per day for young children and two hours for older children.

No screens during meals: Encourage family ties by not closing the screen while eating.

Encourage balanced activities

Physical activity: Make sure that your child exercises regularly to balance the sedentary time spent behind the screen.

Creative Games: Encourage activities that promote creativity, such as drawing, designing, and imaginative games.

Follow the content

Age-appropriate content: Choose age-appropriate educational apps, games, and shows.

Parental Controls: Use parental controls to monitor and restrict access to unwanted content.

Be a role model

Healthy Habits: Demonstrate healthy viewing habits by limiting your screen time and participating in family activities.

Active participation: Participate in the viewing with your child to make them interactive and informative.

Create technology-free zones

Designated areas: Create technology-free areas in the home, such as bedrooms and dining areas, to maintain a healthy balance.

Planned Breaks: Encourage regular breaks while watching to reduce eye strain and increase physical activity.

The impact of watching on parenting

Cognitive development

Balanced Screen Use: When used correctly, gadgets can promote cognitive development through educational content and interactive learning.

Problems of overuse: Excessive time spent behind the screen can hinder cognitive development, reducing the time spent playing physical games and communicating in the real world.

Social and emotional growth

Positive interaction: Video calls and messaging can strengthen social and emotional connections.

Negative consequences: Over-reliance on virtual interactions can limit social skills in real life and lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety.

Influence on behavior

Positive Content: Educational and positive-minded content can promote good behavior and healthy habits.

Inappropriate Content: Exposure to aggressive or inappropriate content can negatively affect behavior and attitudes.

Conclusion

Gadgets and screen time are an integral part of modern parenting, offering both benefits and challenges. By setting clear boundaries, encouraging balanced activities, and tracking content, parents can be confident that technology is contributing to, rather than hindering, their child's development. The main thing is to use gadgets correctly and thoughtfully, maintaining healthy relationships with technologies that contribute to overall well-being and growth.