The Shadow of Television for Child Development: Alternative Paths
- November 13, 2024
Today, television, tablets and smartphones have become an inseparable part of our lives. Although these technological devices facilitate access to information, their negative effects, especially on children, cannot be ignored. Excessive consumption of television in particular can negatively affect children's physical, mental and social development.
What are the Harms of Television to Children?
Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder: Rapidly changing images and constantly changing content on the screen distract children and cause difficulty in focusing. This situation paves the way for problems such as attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
Language Development Regression: Television is a one-way communication tool. Mutual interaction is important for the development of children's speech and language skills.
Learning Difficulties: Television negatively affects children's learning skills by causing them to engage in passive consumption rather than active learning.
Social Isolation: Children who become addicted to screens withdraw from activities such as playing with friends and socializing, and their social skills weaken.
Violence and Negative Behaviors: Watching violent programs on television can increase the tendency towards violence in children and cause negative behaviors.
Obesity and Health Problems: Being inactive in front of the television increases the risk of health problems such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Sleep Problems: The blue light emitted by screens disrupts sleep patterns and causes sleep problems.
What Should Be Done For Children To Grow Up Healthy In The Digital World?
Limit Screen Time: Limit the amount of time kids spend in front of screens on a daily basis.
Choose Quality Content: Make sure the programs your children watch are educational and age-appropriate.
Make Time for Shared Activities: Spend more time with your children through activities such as playing games as a family, reading books, and taking nature walks.
Use Technology in Restricted Areas: Turn off technological devices while eating, before going to bed, and while playing games.
Set an example: Children imitate their parents' behavior. Set an example for your children by using technology in a balanced way.
Offer Alternative Activities: Encourage children to do sports, music, or art.
Teach Digital Literacy: Teach children about safe use of the internet, accessing accurate information, and the risks of the digital world.
In conclusion, although television and other digital devices are a part of our lives, it is very important to establish balance in children's development. By limiting screen time, choosing quality content and offering alternative activities, you can ensure that children grow up in a healthy and balanced way.
