Effect of Modern Technology to Children

Melanie B. Batac

Technology plays vital role in our daily lives. These include electronic games, home computers, handheld devices, and different type of gadgets.

Man has become dependent to the modern day gadgets. Many children are getting so addicted to these things they tend to forget they have a life. Gadgets are popular in children and as likely in elders. People are becoming lazier day by day in performing everyday task its due to human intelligence upton some extent as per my observation. In addition of being addicted to such things are: We are so busy into our gadgets even if we are outside travelling on jeepneys , tricycle, motorcycle and even walking on streets. I’ve seen people busy listening to songs and talking on phones even while crossing roads and railway tracks. These have been the causes for many severe accidents.

Children become aggressive when they play violent games. They confront their parents and elders when restricted or stopped from watching their favorite TV program. Studies also affected. In this norm we can’t keep our children out of this. Research has been conducted in how gadgets impact on cognitive and motor skills of children. It also describes the ways for parents how they can monitor their children by limiting their time of gadget uses. As the gadgets are increasing day by day, it is leading to the technology addiction among children.

Gadget in the development of children now a days is like a two edged knife. Its presence can bring a lot of advantages and can also bring a negative effect to a child. How much is gadget needed in a child’s life? What are the side effects? When is the right time to introduce children to the digital world? Should a rule be made in the usage of gadget by a child? Psychologist and child development expert state that there is no universal age for a child to be ready to use a smartphone. Parents also have to accompany their children according to their emotional and physical maturity. The Philippine Pediatrics and Society of Pediatrics state that children below 2 years old are better to be without gadget. The usage of gadget 4-5 times a day can have a serious effect. Such as Developmental delay, Obesity, Radiation exposure, Dependency, Digital Dimensia , and Aggressiveness.

Does your children use gadgets like they are an extension of their hands? It is not surprising as children can master anything when exposed at an early age, including the use of gadgets that have become an inseparable part of their daily lives since they were born. Can we prevent them from getting addicted to their gadgets? Yes! we can . Parents must set a good example

W hat children see, children will do. If you want your children to use gadgets for positive things and in an appropriate manner, you will need to lead them by example. such as only using your gadgets at the appropriate time, place and matters. Create a healthy gadget usage schedule

Limit the time they spend on gadgets. If they are of age, discuss with them for an agreement on time allowance for using gadgets. Keep an Eye on Their gadget usage. Store gadgets in the living room instead of your children’s bedrooms and always supervise their playtime with the gadgets. Once in a while, play with them or ask what makes them interested in the video they are watching or the game they are playing. Set gadget-free time slots. Make sure the Apps and contents are age-appropriate. Only approve the applications your children wish to download and the videos they want to watch if they’re appropriate for their age. In addition, don’t give permission to your children to have their own e-mail or social media account before they are of age. Encourage your children to do activities outside the house

Taking your children outside the house to do activities can show them that there are many fun gadget-free activities. Plus, doing activities together can make create a better bond with your children!

The author is Teacher

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III at Porac Elementary School, Porac East District