Parents have to be well informed about their child’s activities while giving permission to use mobile phones. It is true that in the 21st century a mobile phone is essential but not always beneficial and comes with certain challenges. In this article, we will address the 5 things to be aware of , if a child is using a mobile phone. The negative side of over using mobile phones comes along with the numerous benefits of the phone. The parents , teachers and mentors have to have a keen eye on the child while the children are using mobile phones.
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Screen time management
One of the most critical aspects of mobile phone use is managing screen time. When I was a teenager, our primary source of entertainment was playing outdoors or reading books. The negative side effects of children being mobile for a long time are sleep disturbance, eye strain, potential health issues.
Tip for Parents: Set clear limits on screen time. Use tools available on most smartphones to monitor and control the amount of time your child spends on their phone. As parents it is their duty to encourage kids to play outside , take up any sports , or reading books or having any other offline activities. Having a creative hobby for the kids is necessary which will help them to use their leisure in a better way.
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Online safety and privacy
The internet is a vast space, and not all of it is safe for children. From my own high school experiences, I recall the excitement of discovering new information online. Today’s internet comes with cyber bullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. Parents have to be very careful about it.
Tip for Parents: The best way to avoid the negativity of online existence is educate the child about safety related to online presence. Teach them not to share personal information like their home address, phone number, or school name with strangers. Encourage them to talk to you if they encounter anything uncomfortable online. Utilizing parental control apps can also help monitor their online activity and block inappropriate content.
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Cyberbullying awareness
Cyberbullying has become a significant issue with the rise of social media and instant messaging.
Cyberbullying is more furtive and damaging than old traditional bullying. I remember feeling the sting of harsh words from classmates, but today, children can be targeted at any time, even within the safety of their homes.
Tip for Parents: Foster open communication with your child. As a parent , it is your duty to make kids feel safe , secure and comfortable to talk about their online interactions with others. Cyberbullying comes with sudden behavioural changes on the victim as reluctant to go to school or lower self esteem . It will be an immediate concern for the parents to help their kid to come out of this situation by blocking and reporting the contact or content as well.
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Maintaining balance with schoolwork
Mobile phones can be both a distraction and a useful tool for schoolwork. During my college years, balancing social life and academic responsibilities was challenging, but smartphones weren’t as prevalent. The continuous notification on the phone easily distracts children from their studies or any other activity. It hinders creativity and productivity.
Tip for Parents: Establish phone-free study times. Creating a dedicated time and space for homework and studying and some specific times for social media or video games will help kids to be free from digital distraction. Encourage the use of educational apps and resources, but ensure that their primary focus remains on their schoolwork. Regularly check their progress and provide help when needed.
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Setting a good example
Children often mimic the behaviour of their parents. It is always true that children’s habits and routines are always influenced by parents. It reflects the upbringing . Kids always try to mimic their parents. If they see parents are always on the phone and being busy with it , they will also learn similar habits.
Tip for Parents: Parents have to be a role model for their children. If parents limit their screen time to a minimal amount , especially during family meals or during any communication with their kids , it helps their children to understand the real life interactions and being present at that moment. Engage in activities together that don’t involve screens, such as hiking, playing board games, or cooking.
Navigating the entire arena of mobile phones and internet safety is daunting for parents. However, by being aware of screen time management, online safety and privacy, cyberbullying, balancing schoolwork, and setting a good example, you can help your child develop healthy and responsible mobile phone habits. At Delhi Public School Warangal, recognised as a top CBSE school in Warangal, we believe that while the digital revolution and easy access to information have brought in a plethora of benefits on their plate, they also come with challenges. With the combination of conventional values and modern technology, one can have a balanced life. Technology should never rule over human decency and values.
Finding the right balance between tradition and technology is the key. Being informed, involved, and maintaining an open communication platform is what parents need to do right so that their children make the right choice. This would help them function well within the offline world and be accountable for their actions while helping grow into mature responsible individuals at DPS Warangal.