The presence and use of technology by children is an ongoing topic of concern. On one side is the insistence that any exposure to screens is inherently bad for children. On the other is the expectation of advanced education at a young age.
Technology is a tool. It is neither good nor bad; it's all in how you use it. Computers, smartphones, tablets, and TV have received their share of criticism, but there is no turning back the clock to a technology-free childhood.
Technology carries benefits and advantages. It can also be detrimental. Balance is the key.
Education is one of the most significant advantages of technology - you can learn about almost anything using a computer or smartphone, a web browser, and a search engine. For children, the benefits span the educational sphere, including:
Educational programs on television existed well before home computers were a thing. Now there are apps aplenty that teach a variety of classroom skills.
You can always have too much of a good thing. Screen time is no different. Technology overuse can lead to:
None of these downsides listed above warrants taking away all electronics until the kids grow up. They need to learn how to cope with the bad as well as appreciate the good. Parents and teachers should come together to develop a plan to help children learn to use technology appropriately and responsibly.
After all, kids will be using this technology for school and work. Learning as they grow helps instill good habits early.
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides guidance on the amount of screen time children should have at various ages:
Moderation is the key, as it is in most things.
As we mentioned before, there is no reason for an outright ban on technology. You and your students and children should have a sustainable practice for using technology while keeping it in its place.
Balance screen time with face-to-face interaction as well as physical activity. There is no one size fits all plan for families. Each family must determine the best way to create a balanced media policy. If parents and teachers see no sign that the amount of screen time has been detrimental, then a balance has been reached.
Some of the warning signs of unhealthy technology use include:
Make sure the children are accessing age-appropriate content that is interactive and thought-provoking. Set social media privacy settings to restrict what strangers can see. And be prepared to talk about screen time limits more than once.
Children copy adult behavior. If parents or other adults spend time on their devices instead of paying attention to what’s around them, the children will do the same.
Some children may feel like they are competing for a parent’s attention. Teach everyone how to unplug by:
If adults have trouble following limits on technology use, how can you expect a child to learn to do so?
Get together as a family to decide the rules on technology use. Now is the time to teach children how to self-regulate. They are more likely to follow rules they had a hand in formulating.
Be involved in children’s technology experience. Sit with them as they play a game, help them navigate the web, and teach them how to set up files. Tailor the approach to the child's interests and abilities. The age ranges aren't stamped in stone. They are a general guideline to help adults set the right limits.
In a word, no. Technology is an excellent tool for learning and developmental advancement. Everyone uses technology and electronic devices daily. Children will use tablets and computers in school, and they often use smartphones for entertainment and communication.
Help them develop good habits now. Just as limiting television has been an issue since TV began appearing in homes, electronic devices require the same consideration.
Technology is out there. It’s hard to get away from it. It’s better to understand the good and the bad, then take a hand in teaching children how to use technology wisely.