The growth of technology is a nonstop topic. The highlight of many conversations is the features of the phone or tablet that is soon to be released. The more options we have for technological devices, the more we yearn for new and upcoming expansion of the next big thing. It’s highly addictive and difficult to not have these sort of ideas be the top of your mind. As the generations grow, the more we become absorbed into the world of technology. For example, the youth of our society have been fully engaged in a childhood full of electronic devices. Most wont experience a life without a screen that can be accessed with the tip of a finger. Nonetheless, it does have its benefits.
When thinking of the effects of technology, it’s a lot easier to think of the negatives instead of the positives. For children with disabilities, there are many apps that can help them with interaction skills. Also, many children can expand their mindsets by using educational apps and websites. The website connectusfund.org explains that,”Technology will continue evolving. It isn’t going away. Exposing children to tech concepts early on prepares them for a future where they can remain productive.” As stated above, the advancement of technology will remain to increase and the best way to deal with it is to handle devices in a positive manner.
On average, kids and teens use around 8 to 18 hours of technology daily. This exceeds the daily amount that is recommended. Pediatricians explain that kids and teens should only spend 2 to 3 hours per day on devices maximum. Any more than that can cause negative effects to the body. Let’s be honest, most are on their phones, laptops, etc. way longer than that, but whose to blame? Not the phone in your hand or pocket, but yourself. Parents have control of how much time a child should be on electronics. By around noon, most have already exceeded the 2 or 3 hours. This can be controlled by the parent or guardian that takes care of the child.
It’s all about self control. Are you willing to limit your time on electronics? For most, it’s hard to go for even an hour without turning on your phone. The more you are exposed to a device, the more addicted you are going to get. The temptation of just simply turning it on is quite difficult to ignore. Personally, I can’t remember the last time I went an hour without my phone, besides sleeping. When looking around in a public space, it is likely that you’ll notice that at least one person is on some form of an electronic device. This is an effect of exposure to intense amounts of technology throughout our society. It is very uncommon to look up and not see some sort of screen.
To keep your child healthy, encourage kids to go outside and spend time away from electronics. Finding time to unplug can be difficult in this day and age with the common need for devices in work, school, and home. So, when time is available it his very healthy to go out and have in person interactions. Technology often can deprive you from basic social skills if used too much. So, when time is found, it is strongly encouraged to take a break and become more aware of your surroundings.
