Let Your Kid be a Kid

 

Have you ever seen a kid (maybe your own) constantly heads-down, playing with their phone or tablet?

 

These days, kids and teens are not immune to today’s digital explosion. Even kids as young as five know the art of texting. And many teens say that they’re addicted to their phones.

 

Don’t get us wrong, providing a digital device to your child has a few benefits. 

 

• Being a phone call away if there’s an emergency

• Giving them a vast library of educational games

• Providing them a way to easily connect with family, like grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins - folks that they may only see during summer vacation

 

But, there are some disadvantages to arming your child with a digital device. We did some some research and found some interesting facts related to kids in the digital world.

 

Impacts on Health

Digital devices affect the brain, particularly a child’s brain. Things like reduced attention span, anxiety and in some cases, cancer. Plus, when kids spend more time online than outside, obesity is a risk.

​

Effects of the Phone

One lesser-known impact of talking on your cellphone frequently is radiation, which impacts the brain and body at a cellular level. Studies show that phones emit radio waves (radiation) from the antenna area, which could lead to cancer. One more reason to limit your child's mobile phone use. 

​

Impacts on Real-World Interaction

Being constantly plugged in affects the ability or opportunity to communicate in the “real world.” Making meaningful relationships with friends and family, including you.

​

So what can you do?

 

• Set an example.  If you’re not unplugging, your kids won’t either.

• Show them how to hug. When you’re reading a book, exercising, meditating - anything, your child is likely to follow your lead.

• Spend time with them. Family “game night.” Going to the park. Reading a book at bedtime.

 

Quality time with you is the best gift you can give your kids.

 

Here are more examples of unplugging and hugging with your kids:

 

• Bike riding

• Hiking

• Playing board games

• Reading together

• Baking cookies

• Throwing the ball around

• Going on a picnic

• Touring a museum

• Eating dinner as a family

• Playdates

• Doing crafts

A child’s brain, social development and physical health are extremely impacted by too much texting and posting - heads-down on their devices. So, unplug and hug with them. They’ll love it.

​

Check out the Explore & Learn resources to learn more!