Pakistan
Our daily routines revolve around electronics, with our eyes constantly fixed on screens - from using phones as alarm clocks to checking notifications first thing in the morning. Electronics have become so intertwined with modern living that we spend time watching media on different devices before sleeping at night. The pervasiveness of these gadgets has influenced younger generations too, as a study by UC Sanfrancisco revealed how adolescents' screen-time doubled during COVID-19 pandemic.
Spending excessive amount of time on screens can lead to psychological problems like anxiety and depression, while prolonged usage of social media may negatively impact children's perception towards reality, peers and even self-esteem.
Electronics aren't entirely negative - they serve as significant resources for education and amusement. Being electronically literate is a crucial ability to possess in the future. Nonetheless, allowing children to be kids entails restricting their screen time so that they can explore outside, engage with their surroundings, and exercise imaginations while engaging in physical playtime- which remains an essential aspect of childhood development fostering resilience, inventivenessand courage.Let's discuss xx techniques on controlling your child's usage of electronics!
Have expectations and set clear goals
Informing your children about the benefits of restricting screen time is crucial for their welfare. Elaborate to them on why it's necessary to reduce gadgets usage, and then establish distinct limitations regarding its frequency and timing. If you decide upon two or three hours per day limit, make sure they abide by it religiously. In case you're hesitant in setting such a stringent condition at first go, decrease the screen time gradually so that everyone adjusts calmly and comfortably.
“No Phone Zones”
Motivate your loved ones to decrease their use of electronic devices by establishing designated "No Phone Zones." These areas are specifically for interacting with one another in person and dedicating undivided attention. The dinner table, as an example, could become a dedicated "No Phone Zone" during family meals where all cellular phones must be put away. Another option is creating the bedroom into a marked off area without phone usage which would encourage spending time together in shared spaces even while using technology.
Take Your Kids On Adventures
Encouraging children to explore the world on their own terms is crucial. Engage them in fun outdoor activities that enhance curiosity and exploration. Take them hiking or camping to connect with nature, or allow energetic play at a park. Such experiences are essential for kids as they discover how fascinating and enjoyable life can be without electronic devices consuming all their attention.
Make Technology A Privilege, Not A Right
Children may perceive that they are entitled to their electronic devices since everyone around them seems to have them. However, it's crucial for parents to establish a relationship with electronics based on privilege rather than entitlement. By granting access as long as the child follows rules and behaves appropriately, negative consequences can be used when necessary. For instance, if your child misbehaves or breaks any ground rules surrounding screen time usage then take away phone privileges temporarily or reduce screen time limits accordingly.
Don’t Multitask With Electronics
According to research, engaging in multiple electronic tasks such as texting or social media while watching TV can harm concentration, memory and productivity. Therefore, it is crucial to possess the ability to focus entirely on one task at a time; an unhealthy dependence on electronics has immense potential for damage! Henceforth encourage yourself and your children alike not to indulge in multi-tasking with gadgets. For instance - when enjoying family movie night together – phone usage must be off-limits! Similarly during conversations too- switching off devices shall nurture focused interaction between individuals.
Lead By Example
Ensuring that your kids follow positive conduct is crucial. Prolonged usage of electronic devices by you can incline them to mirror this lifestyle. Are you excessively dependent on electronics? Assume the role of a leader and display desirable behavior! When children perceive self-discipline in their parents, they are motivated towards it themselves.
