When it comes to development and early childhood education, it is quite common to hear criticism of electronic devices, but in an era of YouTubers and mobile games, it is increasingly difficult to separate the little ones from technology. Thus, the debate becomes how to find a balance for a child to use cell phones and tablets without being harmed.
New generations have already been born immersed in the digital world, which makes prohibition difficult. Child and family psychologist Carol Braga explains that, from the moment a child has a cell phone or tablet, the communication relationship she has with others changes considerably. Therefore, instead of prohibiting, it is important to monitor and supervise the use of these electronic devices.
When it comes to restricting use, it all depends on the child’s age and evolution. Experts recommend making some stipulating rules to avoid overuse with the children, in addition to guiding them on the benefits and risks of this reality. And this is also useful when it comes to internet access.
“The era of mobile access must be a major concern when it comes to putting a smartphone or tablet in the hands of children. From the moment the network migrates to a device like these, the possibility of using the internet without being accompanied by an adult increases a lot and, for this reason, parents should always monitor and supervise the use of these devices by the little ones “, says the specialist.
If the question is about the right age to present your child with an electronic device, the answer may also vary depending on the child. A good measure is to assess whether the device is really necessary. If your child already has an intense social life, sleeps in the house of friends, or is alone in the club, for example, maybe it is time.
Treatments and rules
Among some of the recommendations that can help when limiting the use of an electronic device, the child psychologists indicate teaching the usefulness of that technology. Teach that the device should only be used to send messages and make emergency calls, and show alternatives.
Determining at what time and for how long the child can play with the device helps to limit the time of use of digital equipment.
Another suggestion is to always encourage interaction with family and other children, where emotional ties and communication are stimulated. It is also recommended not to allow use at the time of the meal – whether at home or in restaurants. This is a time that allows great family interaction, and the electronic equipment compromises the attention and social interaction between everyone.
In addition, it is very important to aim at the safety of the child. Teach that the phone number and virtual passwords cannot be given to anyone and also provide guidance on sending photos and other information to unknown people through messages.
Monitoring
When the concern is related to accessing content on the networks, the professional always indicate to explain which are the most appropriate sites according to the age, development, and maturity of each one. For active monitoring, parents can use advanced parental monitoring apps such as FamilyTime that allow parents to check their kids’ online exposure and implement screen time rules while putting internet filters and more.
Remember that even when there are advanced technologies, such as filters and security systems that block prohibited or insecure messages and allow the content accessed by children to be monitored from anywhere, the recommendation is still the conversation. An open and respectful dialogue with children or adolescents can help to convey important values that parents want to continue over time in their children’s lives.
Benefits and evils of technology
According to experts, the abusive use of technologies can also harm the child’s health. Pain in the neck, eyes, and thumbs and muscle discomfort, can be signs of overuse of electronics. In addition, if no limits are set, the technology can disrupt the quality of sleep and performance of the little one.
On the other hand, the benefits and positive aspects of technology are undeniable, simplifying life, and helping in everyday life, providing information, culture, education, including in schools. The professional says that using electronic devices allows the child to create a critical sense, stimulate creativity and reasoning, deal with challenges, and acquire a strategic vision.
Son of a fish, a goldfish
Children follow examples, right? Therefore, the best way to encourage moderate use is for parents to also seek a balance when using the equipment. Of course, as an adult, you have more freedom, but respect the rules that you impose. Avoid using it in meals and in intimate moments of the family.
Remember that the complicity between parents and children, guidance, and open conversation are the best ways to maintain the child’s safety and healthily use electronic devices, be it a computer, cell phone, video games, tablets, or any other device another technology.
