It has become more difficult to separate our children from their gadgets these days. This article discusses tips on how we, as adults, can help children engaged without the use of gadgets. (Tip: it involves us not using gadgets as well!)
Like a bad love team, kids and gadgets shouldn’t be together. Gadgets can be harmful to kids, especially when used excessively. They keep children from being active and reduce real world conversations and connections. But how do you wean youngsters away from their precious gadgets? What should moms and dads do to effectively limit screen time and bonding moments with all things “techy”?“ Getting children to ‘detox’ is something that is done ‘by example,’” says educator, wife and mother of two Aina Arcilla-Lacson, M.A., who owns Playseum and makes Lacwood Toys. “If children see [and live it daily] that their parents reach for their respective gadgets the minute they awake in the morning, then getting the kids to do otherwise will be difficult.” Digital “detoxification,” she explains, can happen if there are interesting and interactive alternatives to do at home. But moms and dads always have to lead and initiate. “If we parents expect our kids to ‘do it themselves,’ then we are gravely misguided. Children always follow by example,” Teacher Aina stresses. “If mom is forever on Candy Crush or Flappy bird during her free time, then children will do the same thing. We cannot keep nagging our kids to ‘Read your books’ if we ourselves are constantly reading online. Go out to lunch or dinner without the friggin’ gadget! Normal human beings talk to each other over meals. Not stare at their phones or iPads while waiting for the meal to arrive.” Here are Teacher Aina’s suggestions on how to model good behavior and keep young ones engaged and entertained while away from their iPads, iPods, and other addictive doodads.
What gadget-free activity have you done with your child recently?
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
FYG TEAMThe team is composed of Guidance Counselors dedicated to the formation of students. Archives
July 2017
Categories |