We are all guilty of countless hours of mindless scrolling on our phones, ignoring human connection.
Our children unfortunately consider it part of their social life, a way to stay connected with their peers. Gone are the days of hiding in the pantry on the telephone dialing the number of your crush and hanging up when they answer. Sadly learning how to socialize has changed so much, now everyone sits in restaurants staring at their cell phones. Human connection is so incredibly important, from babies to the elderly. Media has afforded our children isolation, bullying, manipulation, and body dysmorphia in the palm of their hand.
At what age are handheld devices appropriate, offering accessibility to social media? Is tablet time and cell phone use being abused by children, but being allowed by adults? Parenting is tough enough without the added argument about screen time. Please understand I am not trying to contradict myself,(Blog Post: Mindful Technology ), but I can’t stress enough the importance of putting down technology to embrace the here and now. The little people I care for show so much more anxiety, and less patience, not because they aren’t capable of it, but their environments have become more instantaneous.
Hug your children, let them know that they are far more important than anything else. Teach them the importance of human interaction, and being present. So often when we are doing our exercises in daycare, an ad pops up the children insist that I “skip it”. Unless its inappropriate I will instead show them how to utilize the time constructively. The art of conversation is such a beautiful way to connect with our little ones, helping them use their imagination. Teaching conversation as a part of human connection without physical contact. To the right is a link for a very cool family game. The game helps with getting to know each other in a more humorous way, breaking the ice for conversations with our kids.
Any time we can separate screen time from family time, we are creating a more focused bond. Children need to feel important and heard, respect given is respect received. Take time to sit quietly and read a book with them, having family meals, anything that can create a positive screen free connection. Remember anyone that feels heard, is more likely to express inner thoughts and feelings. Mental health is so delicate, and when a person does not feel heard, they feel isolated.