Introduction
In the last few months, the Coronavirus pandemic has resulted in most families staying indoors. While this has given a lot of time for kids to connect with their parents, it has been quite hard on them in terms of other aspects as well.
With no school, extra-curricular, and other preventive measures, kids have been reduced to staying indoors for long stretches of time. This has automatically led to more screen time on tech devices and gadgets.
While the same has become necessary in terms of online classes and tuitions, parents need to balance out the same in different ways.
Three Basic Parenting Guidelines to help Balance Tech Use with Physical Activities
1. Balance Screen Time-
There is no doubt that the digital can be a positive space, which helps kids in multiple ways. From staying in touch with their friends to accessing fun and educative content online, our world is becoming increasingly digital-driven.
However, as parents, it is important to ensure that kids are not falling victim to the dangers and threats of the online world. This means that they are not accessing inappropriate content or chat rooms, which can harm their immature minds.
Striking a balance between on-screen time and off-screen time is necessary in most cases. Too much digital use and screen time come with their own set of disadvantages in young kids.
2. Set an Example-
Kids learn and pick up most of the things they do from their parents. As a parent, if you are always on your phone, laptop, or any other tech device, they too will feel doing the same. While you want to explain that it is work-related, they might not always believe the same.
This is why unless it is absolutely necessary for you to use a gadget or a device, avoid using it. This will send a positive message to your kids, that parents too are not using it, so why should I do the same? This will also allow your kids to see you as a role model.
The lockdowns are slowly lifting and vaccines are becoming available. Maybe now is a good time to take precautions, wear masks, and have a stroll or a walk with your kids.
3. Go for Physical Recreation and Activities-
As we mentioned, with the world slowly returning to normal, it might be a good time to enroll your kids in some fun and exciting physical activities. However, you should ensure that you are always taking the necessary precautions at all times.
If you wish you can get a swimming lesson today for your kids and allow them to learn an important life skill. This not only aids in picking up something absolutely necessary, but also aids in healthy physical development and growth.
You can also choose to go cycling or walking together regularly to instill in them a love for the great outdoors and our natural surroundings.
Is Engaging in Physical Activities a Safe Option?
You might be wondering that given all that’s happening around us, should you go for physical activities. Well, depending on which part of the world you are staying in and the governmental regulations there, you can make an informed decision.
Most experts believe that taking due precautions and staying safe is something that can help us protect ourselves in these times. You need to remember that if your children become dependent on technological use, it would be very difficult for you to get them to kick the habit.
While you may not be able to completely eliminate the same, balancing it with physical activities in a safe location, can be the answer.
The Final Word
Most international organizations have pointed out that crimes against children in the digital ecosystem have exponentially increased during the pandemic. This is because a number of anti-social elements have found it easy to target kids during the lockdown. By following the contents of the article, you can ensure that your kids stay safe, grow in a healthy fashion, and engage in activities, which are right for them.
