Kids, even though they’re young, can find ways on how to have fun. But the rapid growth of technology has greatly affected people’s lives. Nowadays, children are getting access to mobile devices. Kids are now being exposed to mobile devices and are taking up most of their time.
Parents often overlook the effects of letting them use mobile devices. Actually, 1 out of 3 kids in the United States know how to use a mobile device before they learn how to talk. Then, the Daily Mail reported that 29% of children use gadgets as toddlers and master it when they reach primary school. Honestly, we are alarmed with these data. And we know that you are too.
What’s worse is that professionals are also concerned about the issue and have something to say about it. They’re completely concerned that children prefer to stick with their mobile devices than doing outdoor activities. Lakshmi Murthy, head of resources and planning at Stepping Stones School in India, said there are parents who choose studies over outdoor activities for their children.
“With so much emphasis given on improving their grades, numerous competitive exams and different hobby classes, the children these days have a tight schedule,” Ms Murthy said. “Parents fear for their children’s safety in the outdoor environment and in case of working parents it becomes very difficult to let their children out of the house without supervision.”
Moreover, Amol Deshmukh, a city-based consultant psychiatrist said: “It is very important for children to go out to be able to good physical as well as mental health and to develop soft skills like communication, decision making, and teamwork.”
They warn parents that children who spend less time outdoors are the ones who are likely to get cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, hypertension and other old age diseases during the early stages of their lives.
Meanwhile, paediatrician and EQ trainer Roshni Sodhi cited that it is essential for children to take up activities, such as playing in the garden, aerobics, swimming and cycling. Ms Sodhi noted that these activities help develop children’s mental, physical, social and emotional health.
“Apart from the issues widely observed in children spending less time in outdoor activities like obesity and eye issues, they also have an impact on their mental, social and emotional development,” Ms Sodhi said.
She also pointed out that lack of social interaction will lead to stress, anger and violent emotions.
Children are young. They are in the development phase of life, meaning they’re still growing in all aspects. That’s why they need activities that can help their growth and create a positive well-being. Yes, mobile devices can keep kids occupied and distracted, but it is nothing compared to playing in a children’s playground, making friends, and creating memories that will be remembered when they grow up. If they keep on holding on to their mobile devices, then they’re missing out a lot of fun.
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Content retrieved from: https://irec.ph/balance-studies-playground-time-essential-children-development-says-experts/.