Is technology babysitting your child?
Today the digital era has grasped us into its world more than ever before, once you have purchased a smartphone or a digital device you are most likely to rely on it.
Kids are being introduced to technology from entertainment all the way to educational features, we can be pro-occupied with it and sometimes use this to ‘baby-sit’ our children.
As a busy mum, who hasn’t given their child the latest iphone or tablet while out running errands?
Studies show there are negative effects which can impact the child’s wellbeing, in the form of interfering with sleep, mobile addiction, lack of social skills and mental health problems which may arise due to prolonged screen time.
So what can a parent do to not fall into the trap of handing your child a tablet or phone as a distraction every time?
Offer alternative activities –
- Engage them in books. Even if you don’t have time to read your child a book, there are always audio books.
- Teach them traditional games such as I-spy. Talk to them, learn arts and crafts, wooden blocks, puzzles, outdoor play etc.
So remember to find non-tech based activities and use responsible time limit on all devices. Your child’s future self will thank you for it!
- Stephanie Acevedo
