In the digital age, managing children's use of screens has become a real challenge for modern parents. Indeed, if they start to take up too much space in their lives, adverse effects on their growth cannot be ruled out. Problems linked to their social development are a major concern. This article explores the impact of screens on young children, and offers parents strategies for fostering harmonious social development.
How can we manage the use of screens by young children?
Managing children's use of screens requires a balanced approach that recognizes both the benefits and the potential risks. It is essential to establish clear and consistent limits for their consumption. High-quality, interactive content should also be favored. Parents must also ensure that the use of these technologies does not replace the social and physical interactions that are vital to a child's growth.
Parents and educational screens
When well chosen, educational screens complement children's education, as they include appropriate and stimulating content. However, it is important for parents to be involved in the choice of programs and applications. Those that encourage interaction rather than passivity should be prioritized. Selecting quality educational content transforms screen time into an enriching learning experience.
Tips to limit children's excessive use of screens
To limit excessive screen use, it's advisable to establish clear rules from an early age. This includes establishing time slots dedicated to digital media and screen-free zones in the home. Encouraging alternative activities naturally reduces the time spent in front of these devices. It is also suggested to accompany children in their use of screens, sharing interactive moments that can strengthen family bonds and support cognitive and social development.
What impact do screens have on children's social skills?
According to a study by Guilherme Requião Radel Neto et al. REF [^1^], early and excessive exposure to digital tools can have negative effects on children's neurolinguistic development, which in turn can impact their human skills. Reduced face-to-face communication limits opportunities for little ones to practice and stimulate their social skills.
Effects of digital culture on children's human interactions
Digital culture is changing the way we interact. It offers new opportunities for communication, but also reduces direct interaction. This evolution requires us to strike a balance between the advantages of digital technologies and children's fundamental need to develop human skills through real-life experiences.
A parenting approach to fostering the development of social skills
Parents play a key role in their children's social development. Face-to-face interaction goes a long way towards nurturing these skills. Older children also need to be aware of their own use of screens, as they act as role models for their young ones.
Using screens to support social development
Applications and programs that stimulate social skills are effective tools. For example, educational games that encourage group problem-solving or require communicating with others can enrich these skills in children in a playful way.
Activities and games to strengthen social skills without screens
Role-playing and group activities are particularly beneficial for developing these skills. Outdoor games, sports activities and board games encourage children to interact, cooperate and resolve conflicts.
How can we make parents aware of the importance of off-screen activities?
How can parents interact with their children through and around screens to enrich the experience?
Parents' interaction with their children around screens is fundamental. Discussing the content being viewed, asking questions, and encouraging children to reflect on what they see transforms screen time into an interactive learning experience.
Strategies to encourage outdoor activities and board games
Offering attractive and accessible alternatives, such as family outings, team sports or game nights, can motivate children to engage in off-screen activities. According to the French longitudinal study (Elfe) by DEPS, at age 5 and a half, 98 % of children watch TV, 54% play with a tablet or computer and 26% with a smartphone at least once a week.
Tips for balancing screen time and physical activity
To achieve this balance, in addition to setting time restrictions, non-digital entertainment should also be promoted. Creating moments in the day dedicated exclusively to screen-free activities encourages family interaction and movement. Finally, parents need to act as role models for their children, demonstrating the importance of an active lifestyle and limiting their own time spent in front of technology.
What tools are available to parents to help children interact off-screen?
The role of parents and educators in developing social skills
Parents and educators have a complementary role to play in developing these skills in children. Each in his or her own way contributes to supporting children's social development.
Parental control and filtering devices for safe screen use
Parental control applications and filtering devices help parents manage their children's use of screens. These tools limit access to certain content and encourage the use of educational applications, while leaving time for off-screen activities. The use of filtering and parental control devices is necessary to ensure a safe and enriching online experience for little ones. These devices enable adults to supervise usage and encourage healthy habits.
In conclusion
Even though screens have become an integral part of daily life, it's up to parents to adopt a balanced approach. This approach values real interaction and makes judicious use of digital technologies. In this way, they can help their little ones develop the social skills they need to thrive in a connected world.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes and does not replace professional advice.
References
REF [^1^]. Radel Neto, G. R., Nasser de Mello, N. F., da Silva, G. P., Rolim, T. A., & de Souza Pimenta, M. (2024). The impact of caregiver interaction with preschool children exposed inappropriately to screens on neurolinguistic development: a literature review. Link to article
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