We live in an era where we are constantly inundated with technology and screens and sparing it from young children is inevitable. The most challenging part of being a parent today is figuring out how to let your child interact with screen time in a modest way.
Child behavioral experts advise parents to consider delaying introducing young children to screen media as it not only hinders the development skills of language and sociability but also delays their cognitive growth.
According to a UAE survey, one third of children aged 6 years or younger own a tablet or digital device, and with the onset of the pandemic, their interaction has increased tremendously. The survey states that 40% parents look at their child’s interaction with digital devices favorable, whereas 31% think otherwise and feel devices affect their child negatively.
Experts advise parents to allocate screen time based on the age of their child as the one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t hold effective in the circumstance. That said, it is prudent to limit the screentime of children aged up to 3 years as development is happening rapidly and engaging them in non-electronic activities fosters increased creativity and imagination in them.
A good quality preschool positively aids a child’s needs, interests, and holistic development in the early years and makes learning more challenging and enjoyable. The effective of EYFS learning at a nursery allows children to think critically, predict outcomes, find similarities and differences, problem solve, and explore; leaving little room for activities to involve any screen time.
A balanced approach to the new technology driven world is highly vital. Below are few tips parents can adopt;
Be Good Role Models
Parents are constantly setting examples of screen use for their children and self-regulation is said to be vital. We are all aware that children absorb by watching the environment around them and look up to the adults in the family. The next time you see yourself scrolling through your phone while the T.V series is running in the background, remember that you are imparting the exact screen-related behavior to your child.
Establish “Tech-Free Zones” in your house
Create areas in your house where technology is strictly prohibited. Allow the family a media-free zone where electronics are simply are allowed for anyone—whether it's smartphones, video games, or even laptops. The area should inspire activities and family conversations and make sure to discuss the screen time allowance together so that everyone takes part in the exercise. Early learning experts also recommend that children should not be exposed to screens for an hour before bed, to enhance the quality of their sleep.
Educate Children On Pros and Cons
With a wealth of app-based entertainment available, it's easy for parents and children to become reliant on electronics in their free time. Interacting almost exclusively with screens has adverse effects on children and educating them on the myriad downfalls like cyberbullying and online predators can most likely have them register and follow the rules you have set. Instead, encourage children to engage in purposeful activities around the house and cultivate the practice of learning through play.
Keep A Device Check
With the increasing popularity of e-learning, children are highly exposed to the internet and tend to make their way to digital interactions with less maturity. A result of which they fall prey to online scams and predators. As parents, it is essential to keep a close check on the devices, its contents, and the apps your child is using along with passwords and strict time limitations.
Take a moment to pen down the changes you want to cultivate for your family and start with smaller goals for your children, whether it's increasing their time outside the house or enrolling them in a nursery that offers a purpose-built curriculum for young learners making them creators rather than just consumers of information.
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At British Orchard Nursery, innovation and quality are the key drivers that have placed it as the top choice for parents and made it the largest quality certified preschool chain in the GCC. Our top nursery in UAE follows the British Early Years Foundation Stages (EYFS) curriculum that focuses on 7-core areas of age-appropriate learning. Our well-developed and holistic curriculum combines learning with fun and innovation.