Increasing screen time has become a serious concern for parents, teachers and society
Author:
Manjit Singh Mehra
Special Correspondent
Punjab Media Times
We are living in an age of technology. Mobile phones have made human life easier in many ways. Education, information, communication, online services and entertainment—all these areas have benefited greatly from mobile technology. However, when this convenience becomes a major part of a child’s daily life, it is natural to ask: Are we giving technology to our children, or is technology taking control of their valuable time?
Over the past few years, the use of mobile phones among children has increased rapidly. Even young children spend long hours watching videos, playing games and using social media or other applications. Many parents, because of their busy schedules, hand over mobile phones to their children to keep them quiet or occupied. Gradually, this habit can become a regular part of a child’s daily routine.
It is important to understand that a mobile phone itself is not harmful, but excessive or uncontrolled use can become a matter of concern. If a child spends most of the time on a screen by reducing time meant for studies, outdoor activities, family interaction, socialising with friends and adequate sleep, parents need to pay serious attention.
A child’s development does not depend only on academic knowledge. Playing, running, spending time with friends, interacting with elders, staying close to nature and developing creativity are equally important. If most of a child’s free time is spent in front of a screen, these important activities may suffer.
Excessive mobile phone use can also affect a child’s studies and ability to concentrate. On one hand, constantly changing videos and games provide instant entertainment, while on the other hand, developing the habit of reading a book or concentrating on a subject for a longer period may become difficult. Therefore, parents should try to maintain a healthy balance between studies and mobile phone use.
Parents have the greatest responsibility in this matter. Simply telling children not to use mobile phones is not enough. Parents themselves must set an example through responsible phone usage. If adults at home remain busy with their phones all the time, it becomes difficult to expect children to behave differently.
Some simple rules can be introduced at home. Keeping mobile phones away during meals, limiting phone use during study hours and avoiding screens before bedtime can be beneficial for children. At the same time, children should be encouraged to participate in sports, reading, art, music and other creative activities.
Schools also have an important role to play. Teachers should educate children not only about digital literacy but also about digital discipline. Children need to understand that not every piece of information available on the internet is true and that sharing personal information with strangers can be dangerous.
Cybersecurity is another important aspect of this issue. The more children use mobile phones and the internet, the more awareness they need about online fraud, fake accounts, unknown links and protection of personal information. Parents should maintain open communication with their children so that if an online problem occurs, the child feels comfortable approaching the family instead of being afraid.
We must also remember that childhood is one of the most important stages of life. During this period, children learn not only from screens but also from the people and environment around them. Before putting a mobile phone in their hands, we should also put a book, sports equipment and the love of family in their hands.
Moving away from technology is not the solution. What we need is to teach children how to use technology correctly, safely and in a balanced manner. A mobile phone should become a tool for children’s education, not a replacement for their childhood.
Today, every parent needs to ask themselves one question: Is my child using the mobile phone, or is the mobile phone using my child’s time? The right answer to this question can guide us towards a better future for our children.
KL JIT WALIA
