KIDS AND TECH: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
Incessant exposure to "all day TV," violent video games, instant messaging, and the always accessible cell phone interferes with the development of the psychological traits known to be essential to positive outcomes for children, according to Leah Klungness.
"The key to managing kids' technology use is to establish clear 'tech-free' zones," based on Maya Talisman Frost. "This means recognizing times when the present moment is the priority and technology is given a secondary role. Kids need to learn that there are times when paying attention to those around you is of primary importance, no matter what type of urgent phone calls or instant messages might be coming their way."
Technology access has been linked to improved reading skills, but some believe that too much technology can impose dangers on today's youth -- including vision impairment, technology addiction and sexual solicitation. To be sure, technology opens the doors to a world that includes much more than convenience, knowledge and entertainment.
If mom and dad have a difficult time disconnecting from technology, then kids will not see the need to disconnect either. Parents set the tone when it comes to limiting technology. Parents must practice what they preach. Klungness summarized a point on which most medical experts can agree: parents should supervise their children's use of technology.
CLAIRE, J. Kids and tech: how much is too much? Available at: <http://www.technewsworld.com/story.html>. Access in: 2012 Jun. 11 (adapted).
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