Children and technology go hand and hand. Still, how much technology is too much? I have three children, ages 6, 11, and 14, and they all enjoy some form of electronic entertainment. Could our children be addicted to technology? Are kids losing touch with reality? Are children addicted to video games, the computer, texting, television, and Facebook? I have found that limits need to be set when it comes to kids and electronic entertainment.
Why should limits be set on electronic entertainment and learning?
Children can learn by using the computer and be entertained by using electronic devices, but they can get too much of a good thing. When children become addicted to electronics it is unhealthy. We don’t want their sole communication with others to be by texting or going on Facebook. We also don’t want them to lose touch with reality by spending too much time playing video games and going on the computer. There needs to be a balance between electronic entertainment and other forms of leisure and learning activities. I have found that if I don’t set limits or offer alternatives, my children will often choose technology over traditional forms of entertainment.
Alternatives for learning on the computer
There are many great online learning games for young children that my six-year-old enjoys. I appreciate the fact that technology has advanced and kids can learn on the computer; however, I want my children to appreciate and enjoy traditional forms of learning as well. My daughter enjoys reading books to me that we either own or borrow from the library. This is a great way for children to learn and bond with their parents at the same time. Activity books are also a great hands on way for kids to learn while improving their writing skills. Older kids and teenagers can also take advantage of library books that can teach them about many things such as cooking, science, and history.
Offering entertainment that does not involve electronics
If we, as parents, want our children to enjoy entertainment that does not involve electronics, we need to offer them alternatives. The following is a list of ideas for boys and girls by age range:
School-aged children
- Coloring books and color by number
- Board games
- Puzzles
- Crafts (model car kits, paint, friendship bracelets, etc.)
- Age appropriate books
- Play-Doh
- Lego sets and other building toys
- Athletic activities (dance class, swimming,etc.)
Pre-teens and teens
- Book series such as The Hunger Games, Twilight, The Mortal Instruments, and Harry Potter
- Crossword puzzles
- Word search books
- Crafts (level 3 model car kits, rubber stamping, jewelry making, scrapbooking, etc.)
- Cookbooks
- Hobbies (collecting, photography, musical instruments, etc.)
- Athletic activities (sports, karate, etc.)
It is also important for children to get together with friends and have family outings. Children and teens should be told to turn off their cell phones during family activities and during dinner.
What do you think about children and technology? How much is too much? If you think your kids are addicted to technology, try setting limits and offering other activities.
More from Rebecca Bardelli:
5 Fun, Free Places to Take Your School-Aged Children in the Winter
Six Things to Teach Children About Beauty
Really, No Hugging Allowed in Middle School?
