In today's episode of 5-Minute Parenting, we delve into the fascinating topic of how the internet is changing our children's brains. With the internet providing instant access to information and shaping the way we interact with the world, it's clear that its impact goes beyond mere convenience. Excessive use of the internet can lead to negative effects on attention spans, deep thinking, and memory formation. But the positive in all this is that our brain has the incredible ability to rewire itself.
There are ways we as parents can demonstrate and teach our children to use the internet responsibly.
1. Participate in activities that strengthen our focus and attention
Spend time each day completing a single, uninterrupted task. Ex. Read a chapter or two in a book, play a musical instrument, or work on a project without picking up your smartphone to check on something. For our children and teens it may mean keeping their phone in another room away from them so they can focus on the task in front of them without being distracted.
2. Return to nature
Take regular breaks from technology—take breaks in nature. Go on walks, to parks, etc. Kids need to engage in some outdoor playtime. Some research has shown that being in nature may improve our creativity. Plus, an added bonus is just getting some fresh air and exercise which is another positive way to rewire out brains naturally.
3. Create technology-free zones
This will look different depending on your family, the age of your children, etc. Discover times when everyone in the family can turn off technology—during dinnertime, family time together—whether playing games or watching a movie, taking a walk, etc. Everyone in the family, including adults need to abide by the rules and set a good example.
Technology has it’s place, but we need to rule it; not let it rule us.
(Source: http://www.vibrantlife.com/ Author: Beatrice Tauber Prior, Psy.D.)
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