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There is no question technology has become a staple in our lives. It’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t own a smartphone, laptop, or some other type of electronic device.
While there are many benefits to electronic devices, they can also be harmful if not used responsibly. This is especially true for children and teenagers who are still developing physically and mentally.
Parents should be aware of the risks associated with too much screen time and take steps to monitor their children’s technology use. Here are several reasons why it’s important for parents to monitor their children’s engagement with electronic devices..
Children can develop eyesight problems
Most electronic devices emit blue light, which can harm the eyes. Prolonged exposure can lead to eye strain and headaches.
Children should take breaks from using screens and get outside in nature to allow their eyes to rest. It’s also important for children to get regular eye exams.
Potential exposure to inappropriate content
The internet is a vast and dangerous place with countless websites and videos not suitable for children. It doesn’t help that this material is pretty easy to access.
Parents should install software that filters out inappropriate content. They should also regularly check their children’s internet history to ensure they are not viewing anything harmful. If their children are looking at inappropriate content, they should be told why it’s bad and that they shouldn’t look at it again.
Could encounter predators online
In the same vein as encountering inappropriate content, children might encounter predators online. These people can masquerade as fellow students and engage in deviant behavior with your child.
Ensuring your child is safe from predators is vital. You’ll want to tell your kids not to engage in an online conversation with people they don’t know. If anyone asks them to do anything inappropriate, you should tell them to alert you right away.
Risk of cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is a serious problem that can have long-term consequences for children. This type of bullying can be very damaging to a child’s mental health and self-esteem.
It’s critical for parents to talk to their children about cyberbullying and make sure they know how to protect themselves from it. Alternatively, if their child is committing cyberbullying, they should be disciplined.
Children can become addicted to their devices
It’s not unusual for children to become obsessed with their electronic devices. They can become so engrossed in games, social media, and other online activities that they lose focus on the real world.
This type of behavior can turn into an addiction. For example, if your child develops an internet addiction, they might neglect their personal hygiene, friends, or other responsibilities. It’s important for parents to set rules for technology use and enforce them
consistently.
Electronic devices can have a negative effect on children’s social skills. They can become so used to communicating through screens they have trouble interacting face-to-face.
This can lead to problems in social situations and difficulty making friends. It’s important that parents ensure their children are getting enough real-world interaction. This could be by encouraging their children to hang out with friends in real life or participate in an afterschool activity.
Can develop obesity
Another concern about children and electronic devices is their potential to become obese. Many children today spend hours in front of screens instead of being active.
This can lead to weight problems and other health issues. Children need to know why it’s important for them to be physically active. They should also have plenty of opportunities for physical activity like going to the park or playing for a local youth sports league.
Excessive screen time can interfere with sleep patterns
Most children need around eight hours of sleep per night but engaging with electronic devices before bed can disrupt sleep patterns. Your child may not get the right amount of sleep they need. A lack of sleep can lead to problems staying focused in class or on other activities.
A curfew should be put in place for when children can use their electronic devices. This can help ensure children aren’t using their devices before they go to bed and can get the right amount of sleep.
Electronic devices can be a great asset in our daily lives. Unfortunately, it has made parenting more complicated. While children need to know how to use it, they also need to learn the risks that come with it.
With proper monitoring by parents, children should be able to learn how to use electronic devices healthily. The sooner children learn these good habits, the better their long-term development will be.
