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Kids these days spend a lot of time attached to their electronic gadgets to a point that they become bored when they get taken away. Being overly exposed to technology and electronic gadgets is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it has many positives than negatives. Kids get to learn and understand technology better from an early age, a skill much needed in the evolving world we live in.
Even though exposure to screen time and electronic gadgets is important, there are somethings that you have to remember when you allow your kids a lot of screentime. VeryWell family shares:
- Media has both pros and cons. Just like everything else, technology has pros and cons. Kids can learn a lot from educational content, but they can also be exposed to inappropriate images, unhealthy advertisements, and violent content. Take steps to make your child’s media use a positive experience.
- Healthy role modeling is essential. Your child will likely mimic your media use so it’s essential to be a good role model. Read books, engage in physical activity, and spend time outdoors. Set healthy limits on your own electronics use.
- Kids need rules about technology. Establish rules about the sites your child visits, the games they play, and the movies they watch. Don’t allow your child to gain access to social media until they are mature enough to handle the responsibility.
- Engage with your child’s technology. Get involved in your child’s digital world. Learn how to play the games your child enjoys and explore the Internet together. Look for positive activities you can do together with electronics.
- Turn media mistakes into teachable moments. Monitor your child’s activity and be prepared for your child to make mistakes sometimes. Whether they log onto an inappropriate website, or go over the data limit on their smartphone, turn those mistakes into teachable moments so your child can do better next time.
Also see: Why infants and toddlers should avoid TV
