Impact Of Modern Day Gadgets On Kids!

Childhood memories are always special, we often get nostalgic reminiscing about them. When we were kids there was a range of outdoor activities, games and creative things to do, something to look forward and run around. However, the definition of modern childhood has undergone a sea change.

If you have a child in your home, you will be acutely aware of the gadget addiction phenomenon. Be it a mobile, iPad, television or gaming console, children today are almost inseparable from their gadgets. From a 2-year-old baby to 12-year-old teenagers, all can be found glued to their favorite gadgets, due to which physical activity and outdoor games have ceased to exist in their lives.

Further, this addiction to modern day gadgets is triggering a negative impact on their health. A number of studies indicate that the incidence of obesity, depression, and even diabetes (juvenile diabetes) amongst children and teenagers is on a mercurial rise, because of such a lifestyle.

But who is to be blamed for this?

It is common knowledge today, that parents across that globe try to deliver the best of everything to their kids, but sometimes we forget that more than things and luxury, our kids need our time.

Here are some effective measures to curb the gadget menace

• Communicate: As a modern working parent, life is extremely hectic. However, make sure you spend some quality time with your child daily. Talk to your child about different things and understand what is going in their daily life.

• Understand your child: Communication paves the way for better understanding, but as a parent, you have to make an effort to understand your child, as each child is unique and so are their needs.

• Educate yourself: Make sure you are fully aware of what is going on with your child and how he or she is doing throughout the day in different areas, be it school or other activities. Talk to the other parents, and know what your children's peer group are doing.

• Engage them: Take them to parks, indulge in fun outdoor and physical activities. When your child refuses to eat or do a particular work, never bribe them with a mobile phone or a laptop. Instead, promise them a weekend picnic or a day out.

• Reduce internet time: Make sure children below 8 years have either no access or reduced access to the Internet. In fact, children below 10 years should not be allowed to use mobile phones, but that is practically not possible in today’s time, so parents should make an effort to control that and make sure that their children are not spending unnecessary time on internet as not only it is wasting their precious time, but also affects their mental health too.

Lastly, do not let your child forget that there is more to life than video games and TV. Love them but don’t give in to your child’s unrealistic demands.