Why are social media and short reels being called ‘silent killers’ for children? How does blue light emitted from screens affect children’s health? How is addiction to mobile and games affecting the physical development of children?
Today’s times are such that as soon as a child is born, he keeps his eyes on the mobile screen more than on the mother’s milk. If you want to feed food, you need YouTube; to ensure that the child does not cry, it has become necessary to put a smartphone in hand. But remember, the mobile phone you lovingly hand over to your child is becoming a bigger addiction than alcohol or cigarettes! Yes, it may sound strange, but social media has become a ‘silent killer’ for children today.
The illusion of the world of reels – poison in the minds of children!
The 15-second reels seen on Instagram and Facebook trap children’s brains in a vortex called ‘Dopamine Loop’. Seeing an influencer living a luxurious life, the child starts comparing his or her own life with it. “Why don’t I have that toy?”, “Am I not as pretty as her?” Things like these are becoming the cause of depression and anxiety in children at an early age. This competition to get likes and comments is making children mentally tired.
‘Blue light’ snatches away eyesight
Mobile all day and games all night! The result of this is that children are wearing thick glasses at an early age. The blue light emitted from screens attacks the hormone called ‘melatonin’ in the brain of children. Due to this, their sleep pattern gets disturbed and children become irritable or worried all the time. The problem of headache and distraction due to scrolling till late night has become common.
Children forget the field – obesity is increasing at home
There was a time when children used to run to the field to play in the evening. but now? Now they sit in some corner of the house and remain glued to the phone. Due to zero physical activity, obesity, spinal problems and Vitamin D deficiency are being seen in children. Children have started finding ‘fake’ friends of the virtual world more dear than real friends from the outside world. It is also hindering their social development.
Parents, take note, what can you do?
It is impossible in today’s time to keep children completely away from technology. But it is in your hands to control it:
Digital curfew: Completely ban the use of mobile phones at the dining table and bedroom.
Be a role model: If you yourself remain busy on the phone the whole day, your children will also learn the same. First, reduce your screen time.
open you: Explain to children lovingly about online threats, cyber security and trolling.
Emphasize playing outside: Go out and play with your child for at least an hour a day or encourage him to exercise.
Remember, giving a mobile phone to a child is not to give him peace, but to play with his future health. Your ‘smartness’ in using ‘smart’ phone will keep your child’s future safe!