There is so much technology out there these days, that it’s hard to raise a child without exposing them to it. While they can be important teaching tools, it is so important that you don’t get too much technology for kids – or you might end up doing them more harm than good.
Here are the facts about kids and technology, and what you can do to help counteract these effects starting today…
Sleep Quality
Haven’t you heard how important it is to get a good night’s sleep? As adults and as parents, we know the value of getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night. But, the amount you get is pointless if the quality of your sleep isn’t high. The effect of kids and screens before bed have been well chronicled, and access to screens before bed significantly impairs the quality of sleep.
Early on in the developmental process, this can limit the brain from performing essential tasks that make learning, focusing, and generally growing throughout the day. The evening is meant to be restorative for the day ahead, and screens severely hamper that time between your child and their mind.
Social Situations
Another key problem with too much technology for kids is that it impairs their ability to interact with the world around them, and even with you – their parents. Technology is addictive, and for young children who have a hard time saying “no” to things are more likely to invest hours into their devices, and away from their “offline” friends.
By that same token, when kids and screens spend more time together, there’s less time for them to spend with families. Children, especially small children, learn by watching and imitating – screens put a major roadblock between that process, as they spend more time on their screen than with their family.
Weight
Too much technology can also be bad for the body. Studies have shown that children who have screens in their bedroom are 30% more likely to deal with obesity (whether in the moment or down the road). This then leads to higher incidences of diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and much more.
When kids have too much technology, it keeps them stationary – focused more on the action on the screen, rather than the action in their day-to-day lives. So, what can you do about it?
If your child has a hobby, they’re likely spending less time with their screens, more time with you and their other family members, and (likely) more time outside enjoying the great outdoors. When you have a great hobby, whether it’s fishing, hiking, collecting stamps, or watching birds, your child gets to reconnect with nature, with you, and with their body.
Sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it? Learn today how you can get your child away from their screen, and into an exciting hobby which just might change their life.
