Surjit Singh Flora
Parenting today is a completely different experience. Technology and social media offer many chances for learning, connecting, and having fun.
Indeed! while overuse of technology may be detrimental to the development of children. Their brains undergo a shift in their circuitry as a result. Children, for instance, have a much less capacity for concentration, and it does not stimulate critical thinking.
However, there are other problems, such as a decrease in fine motor abilities (recent research revealed that medical students who were interested in becoming surgeons lacked the strength and coordination necessary for fine motor skills). An excessive use of technology may also have a negative impact on children’s physical health, as well as their strength, agility, and confidence. Children that need mobility and exercise would benefit from this. There has been a rise in the prevalence of obesity among children in our nation, as well as the development of health issues that would have previously been more prevalent among the elderly. One of the factors that has contributed to the creation of this is technology. Monitoring and management of technology is necessary in order to ensure that it contributes to the growth and development of children rather than hindering them.
The challenges: if you don’t adapt or are slow to adapt, you’re kicked out of business. Most nonessential businesses that didn’t adapt to online marketing, shopping and delivery have now been rendered out of business.
For the technically challenged parents, things are moving too fast for their capability, and this can expose them to risks e.g. fraud, hacking, identity theft etc. hence the many stories we hear about someone giving out their personal details to a “”customer care agent” a few moments before their accounts were wipes clean.
Also, technological advancements have brought the challenges of monitoring children’s activities on the internet. So many creeps and perverts out there are out to get our children so as parents, we have to step up and secure our children’s devices and do a lot of extra monitoring that wasn’t there before the internet age.
However, they also bring distinct challenges. As a parent, it’s important to find a balance and help your children develop responsible online habits.
The content must be suitable for the age group. Ignoring the issue won’t make the ‘monsters’ of social media disappear.
Even the internet is a blessing for humanity. It has simplified life and advanced technology. The internet influences all age groups in society, especially the youth.
Overusing the internet decreases interest in studies and negatively impacts health. Busy parents often aren’t aware of their children’s online activities. They explore various sites out of curiosity or to learn new things, which can lead to cybercrime.
Another misuse of the internet is cyberbullying. Fake accounts on social media allow people to anonymously threaten young individuals, resulting in various crimes and harm. The online aspect makes it even more dangerous since the bullying doesn’t happen in person.
Children are highly susceptible to manipulation. A small, kind act from a stranger can easily create friendships. A recent study by the Pew Research Centre found that 95% of teens are online, and 85% use social media.
87% of young people have witnessed cyberbullying online. These stats show just how prevalent cyberbullying is and how vulnerable your children can be to it.
Parenting is perhaps the biggest responsibility one can take on. Kids are always picking up new things as they grow. While learning and exploring, they may encounter a situation where you need to step in and assist them.
In today’s fast-paced world, not spending time with your children means missing out on much of their lives. Kids learn from those nearby, and you can steer them in the right direction. As a working parent, you can’t always be with your children. You can use various parental control apps available in the market for this.
A parental control app may not encompass all aspects of effective parenting, but it can certainly assist you in your efforts. Given your hectic work schedule, your child has been spending a significant amount of time with gadgets. These devices facilitate a virtual realm where individuals find solace and enjoyment in the absence of real-world companionship.
Clear and straightforward! Begin by encouraging open and honest dialogue with your children regarding the Internet and social media. Urge them to express their digital journeys, obstacles, and worries.
It is important to convey that not everyone engaging in conversation is truthful, and some individuals may resort to malicious tactics, including revenge porn. Under no circumstances should explicit photos or videos be shared on social media.
Following Define explicit limits: Create specific guidelines concerning screen time, device usage, and online interactions. In our household, we adhere to a fundamental principle: the use of laptops and social media is strictly prohibited on school days.
Prevent your children from sleeping with electronic devices.
Bedtime signifies the time for rest and slumber. Rest is essential for everyone, particularly for young children. Allowing them to go to bed with a device tucked under their arms poses the risk of it being activated the moment you turn your back and exit the room. Your child’s lack of rest will inevitably impact their mood, performance, and overall personal development.
We restrict it to weekends, provided that school homework has been finished to a satisfactory level.
It is essential to educate your children on the importance of online safety. This includes guiding them to create strong passwords, safeguard personal information, steer clear of suspicious links, and engage in responsible behaviour on social media platforms.
It is essential to restrict or withhold excessive information during a casual discussion.
Embrace the role of a digital exemplar: young people absorb lessons from those around them, so it’s crucial to model responsible behaviour online.
Showcase the significance of interacting positively on social media, respecting others’ privacy, and critically assessing the content you consume.
Demonstrate your ability to disconnect from technology and show that staying offline for several days won’t result in any disruption.
If you find yourself unable to put down your phone for even a few minutes, it reflects poorly on your ability to set a positive example.
Moreover, inspire your children to participate in a diverse range of activities that extend beyond the realm of screens. Promote engaging in hobbies, participating in sports, enjoying reading, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Ensuring online safety requires that your child is aware of the negative aspects of the online community. Parents should educate their child about potential dangers and provide appropriate solutions to equip them for any challenges they may encounter. Your child should feel comfortable disclosing their mistakes to you without fear. Serve as both their guardians and closest companions. It is essential to monitor your child’s activities, regardless of how occupied you may become. Inform them of the potential consequences stemming from their specific actions.
Life isn’t solely about the devices we use. Engaging in offline activities can lead to greater productivity.
Explore various indoor and outdoor games that can captivate your children and effectively banish boredom.
(The writer is a freelance writer and journalist)