10 Simple Ways to Control Your Kid’s Use of Gadgets
The use of Technological Gadgets increased heavily due to the situation we faced. The pandemic brought us to our edge and is a proof that the so-called New Normal leans toward to a more technological way of thriving. But, is this a good or a bad way of living?
Technology has become a vital part of the lives of children today. From leisure to educational, there are a lot of ways and purpose as to why they are allowed to use a gadget. Among others, technology has made business and education more efficient and productive, and innovations will continue to benefit people.
One of the good reason to allow kids to continuously access technological gadgets is by doing so, the children will gain knowledge of computers, television, smartphones, and the Internet which can be used to shape up their future. In contrast, the set back lies on the misuse of the gadgets or the info on the Internet which will then lead them to demoralization so, a proper guidance with its use is vital.
What can we do to control our child’s use of Technology/Gadgets?
Promote doing physical activities
A child who is addicted to gadgets may become obese and more susceptible to different diseases due to sedentary lifestyle. By engaging in school sports or physical activities, you can help your children develop an active lifestyle.
Limiting the use of gadgets
Do not prohibit your children from using gadgets, however, you can limit how much time they can spend using them. Researchers suggest that children should be limited to two hours of screen time per day. Your children should also be given a schedule that specifies what time they can access technology.
Make sure they follow their sleep schedule
Using technology can lead to sleep deprivation as one of its negative effects. The low levels of melatonin produced in our bodies by light from computers and mobile devices could lead to sleeplessness. Therefore, make sure children go to bed by 9 p.m. Make sure no gadget is within reach of children at all times.
Talk with them
Communication with them should be a habit. It plays an important role in their development. The use of gadgets is also one of the reasons why children feel alone. Share your knowledge with them and make them feel happy through doing so.
Explain the negative effect of excessive use of gadgets
Getting them to understand the consequences of too much technology use is part of communicating with them. Share with them the damaging effects of using smartphones, tablets, and gadgets. Just be sure not to stray from the facts. Keep everything in perspective and explain it in an educational manner.
Have them Rewarded
Even we, when we are little, loves to be rewarded. You can use the same idea to help you get in control of your kid’s gadget usage. You can always take them to malls, give them books, or simply play with them so you can make sure that they follow the rules you set.
Do not use Gadgets as a replacement to Babysitters
Nowadays people use technological equipment to teach kids. Come to think of it, online videos or any other info online, can help kids access positive and negative information. This is the reason why most of the social media sites are now having policies about all the things posted. Imagine your kid browsing through a website with a sexual content just because some random guy posted a link. You don’t want that to happen.
Monitor their activites
You can always choose to block certain websites and filtering all the browsers. There are also apps that help you lock certain software so you can make sure that your kid won’t be able to unintentionally press anything.
Have them use gadgets in a bright room
Research shows that using too much gadget in a dark room can cause them to potentially damage their eyesight. You may also use gadgets with auto-light sensitivity feature just to be sure.
Create a safe space for Tech Stuff
If you’re leaving your kid with a gadget, always make sure that they are in a safe space. A room without anything hazardous in reach is the best place. Lay some mats or cushions just to be safe and never let them use the gadget while charging.
Allowing children to own a gadget is a good thing, we just have to be there to guide them.
It’s not applicable only to kids as adults may have a hard time learning about it as well so keeping tech-knowledgeable is a good thing. You can also read more about efficient use of gadgets here.
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