How to Help Kids take a Break from Technology

June 10, 2012
DUNIA Mag
Posted in Home and Wellbeing

BY DANIEL PERELMAN
for EliteSitter.com (First published as Taking a Break From Technology)

Growing up in today’s world is a very different experience from growing up before the 1980’s. The world of electronic devices and social media has undoubtedly shaped today’s youth in ways that were previously impossible. It is now standard for a 12-year-old to have a cell phone, at least one TV, and access to the Internet. While it is great and beneficial, in many ways, to have so much access to information and technology, there is also an impact on family life, and on society in general that should be considered.

For children of this generation, what exactly does this mean? It is wonderful that they have easy access to the Internet, and with it, any information that they may need. It is also easier for them to stay in touch with friends and family through mobile devices and social media. However, there’s also the implication that this has on real life. When kids are glued to their screens, they’re spending less time outdoors, less time being active at their local parks, and less time socializing in person, which can cause them to miss out on learning required social skills. Family life also suffers. It is all too common to see a child ignoring, or simply not hearing a parents comment, because they are in the middle of texting a friend, or updating their Facebook status. Family interaction is an important contribution to a child’s upbringing, and it is important balance it with the technological reality of today’s world.

How do we limit the negative consequences of too much technology? Take a techno-break! Encourage your kids to limit their time spent on their cell phones, computers and watching TV. It isn’t necessary to completely block access, because if that were the case, you wouldn’t be reading this article – – but balance is important. You can also provide alternative methods of doing things. For example, although the Internet is a great tool for conducting research, going to the library is very useful, and if you take your child there yourself, you’ll also be spending some quality time together. Conducting physical research, sifting through books with their own hands, can spark something in a child that clicking a mouse cannot. It’s also a great way to break the dependence on technology that children have developed.

There’s also the you factor. Try spending more time with friends in person, or invite them over to set an example for your children. Instead of texting or chatting online, pick up the phone and let your children hear you socializing. You should also have face to face conversations with your kids, because showing a smile in person will go further than an emoticon There are many ways to balance the real world with technology, but it begins with you. Technology has opened up our world to so many positive things, but it is important not to become dependent on it. Help your kids take a break from technology!

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