These days it’s becoming more and
more normal to see children as young as a year old using either a smart phone
or iPad to watch movies on Netflix or download games from the app store. This
generation is tech-savvy and uses technology and various electronic devices
(smart phones, iPads, mac books) for many different purposes, such as to update
and check social media sites, or to research something on good ol’ Google.
Unfortunately the use of technology in children commonly results in less
physical activity, social interaction and interacting with their environment.
Why Limit Exposure to Technology?
·
It
can interfere with sleep! It has been
shown that electronic stimulation causes children to have trouble falling and
staying asleep
·
It
may disturb family and person-to-person interaction! Using electronics doesn’t require interaction with others. Screen time
results in less interaction face-to-face.
·
It
may cause short attention span! According
to studies; too much screen time causes problems with attention.
·
It may interfere with schoolwork! Lower grades are more common in children who
watch a lot of TV.
·
It
may lead to less physical activity! The
more screen time children have, the less physical activity they usually have.
How to Limit the Use of Technology
- Set time limits to the amount of time spent on
all forms of technology and electronic devices.
- Plan fun technology-free activities for the
entire family to enjoy (going to the park, fishing, hiking, camping).
- Sign children up for after school activities such
as robotics, sports, creative arts, sewing, dance, gymnastics, etc.
