Kids nowadays learn how to use gadgets before they even know how to walk or talk. It’s not unusual to see little ones watching videos on a tablet or mobile phone, or children playing games on the laptop or gaming console. Some parents let their kids use these gadgets to keep them entertained so they can finish their chores or take a rest. Allowing them to do this for a limited time is fine. However, excessive use of these things comes with harmful effects, which include the following.
It can turn into an addiction
There are different kinds of addiction, and one of them is a condition called Screen Dependency Disorder. The child becomes dependent on the gadget because his focus is always on it. Whether he is eating or supposed to be doing other things, he can’t move his eyes from the screen. The gadget is also the first thing that he looks for when he wakes up.
It can affect the child’s sleep
When the child is too engaged in the use of the gadget, he will find it difficult to put it down or stop what he’s doing. For instance, if he is playing games, he is more likely to keep on playing even if it’s already past his bedtime. Some kids even pretend that they are sleeping but continue playing the moment that they know that their parents are done checking on them. Not only is this unhealthy, but it also causes them to lie.
It can affect social relationships
There is little interaction with real people because their time is mostly spent on their gadgets. While there are interactions on social media and other games, they fail to develop their interpersonal skills. This will prevent them from opening up to their parents and bonding with them, and from forming friendships with real people.
It can cause eye strain and back pain
Too much screen time can strain the eyes and may result in eye problems. Other health issues can also develop including pains in different parts of the body like the back and neck. It’s because kids who are too consumed with their gadgets usually stay in the same position for a long time.
It can contribute to obesity
Children with excessive gadget use often do not eat right and on time. They grab any food that they can conveniently eat while watching and playing. They also don’t have time for exercise, which can lead to obesity. This can, in turn, lead to other health complications like diabetes and heart problems.
It can cause bad behaviour
Kids who become dependent on their gadgets can be easily agitated and angry. If something or someone disrupts them, they will be irritated, or they might show negative behaviour.
Too much of something is bad, and that includes the excessive use of gadgets. Give your kids a specific time that they can use these things. Find them other activities that they can enjoy like riding a scooter. It will let them enjoy the outdoors and develop their physical skills at the same time. Click here to find different scooters that are ideal for kids.
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