Technology has become a part of our daily routine regardless of age. It is impossible to avoid, and even if you manage to do it, it is ill-advised. In today’s world, society thrives on technology; without its usage, you’ll be akin to a vagabond and a recluse. However, too much exposure can have harmful effects also. That being said, today, we are not here to discuss the pros and cons of technology. The topic here is far more urgent, as it involves our children!
Children are the future of society; they are the ones who will grow up to be the leaders and decision-makers of tomorrow. We need to ensure that they have a healthy and happy childhood so they can grow up well and play their part in society. Now the question arises, how can they go about the process? We, at Delhi Public School Kangra, a renowned CBSE school in Kangra, do have a solution to share with you all, but you, the parents, will have to be the ones to enforce it.
Noteworthy Issues You Must Consider Before Starting Anything
As mentioned earlier, in today’s world, technology is entangled in everything. Whether it be education, entertainment, shopping, or anything else, electronic gadgets have made life easier and more efficient. However, that does not mean that technology has not had its damaging effects, especially on children! We can’t ignore the fact that their overreliance on technology has made them somewhat oblivious to how the real world works. It has given rise to obesity, lack of attention span, and poor social skills. But let us assure you that you don’t need to ask, “Oh my God! What are we going to do?” The solution lies in responsible exposure to technology.
Limiting Time with Anything with A Screen is the Key
It is crucial to regulate the time your children spend in front of anything on a screen. The following are some of the ways you can help your child keep gadget addiction at bay:
- Set an Example: The idea of leading by example is one of the most important aspects of parenting. It is essential to lead by example because children are very observant and learn more from what you do instead of what you say. Leading by example is important because it helps children healthily develop good habits. If you want your child to be active, then it’s best not to sit on the couch all day and watch TV with them. Instead, go for a walk or play outside together and build your relationship. Limiting your phone usage in front of them is another excellent example.
- Setting and Enforcing Rules: As a parent, it is vital that you set strict rules for your kids. It will help them with self-discipline and responsibility. Such rules help them understand their boundaries and eventually develop maturity. They also learn about the consequences of one’s actions; in other words, they learn about cause and effect. However, you have to ensure not to get too bossy – children don’t like that, and they’ll not listen to you. A good way out is to find a middle ground where you get your way, and even the children are happy to obey you.
- Outdoor Activities & Sports: Children should spend a significant amount of time in natural environments because it is necessary to expose them to the natural world so that they develop an appreciation for it. It helps build social skills, confidence, and leadership skills in them that would help them tremendously later in life. Children should also be encouraged to be involved in sports and physical and creative activities. When they remain involved in such activities, their gadget addiction will automatically be dealt with. Moreover, they would develop a healthier immune system, would have improved creativity, and enhanced problem-solving skills.
- Making Time for Them: There are many benefits that children get to experience when you, the parents, choose to spend some alone time with them. The more time you spend with them, the more they will feel loved and cared for. They’ll learn how to be a good person in society and interact with others. It will also help strengthen your relationship with them. But most importantly, if you look at it from your perspective, you’ll get to spend time with the people you love the most.
Stop the Addiction: Be a Hands-on Parent
Although made light of at times, the dangers of technology addiction are genuine. It can give rise to mental and physical illnesses among children. Prime examples are how violence on TV may promote violent behavior and over-reliance on gadgets may lead to laziness among children. The only way to prevent this is for parents to be more proactive while dealing with their kids.
Thus, we, at Delhi Public School Kangra, one of the leading CBSE schools in Kangra, would like to urge the parents to be more involved in their child’s education and life in its entirety. You should focus on making your children feel loved, appreciated, and wanted. However, you have to also keep in mind not to be over-bearing and nagging as it may do more harm than good. Finding the fine line between being over strict and over lenient is what will come to your aid in helping your kids grow out of their gadget addiction and grow into healthy, responsible adults, having an appreciation for their own worth as well as the worth of others.