How do gadgets affect children? And should smartphones be banned for children?

Contents:

• Should we ban or allow gadgets?
• Why are we afraid to trust gadgets to children?
• Why are children glued to gadgets?
• How to use a smartphone usefully at home?
• How to use a smartphone in the classroom
• Brief summary

Parents often complain on forums, saying, "He's always on his phone!" yet continue to buy their children gadgets. This is because modern smartphones provide access to important tools, such as an electronic diary, class chat, and communication with a music school. Finding a balance between technology use and time spent away from screens is essential to ensure children's harmonious development.

Psychologists Yulia Starostina and Ksenia Shcherbinina share their knowledge and experience. They discuss important aspects of psychology, providing helpful tips and recommendations. Their professional approach to psychology helps people better understand themselves and their emotions. Yulia and Ksenia emphasize the importance of mental health in everyday life, offering strategies for overcoming stress and improving emotional well-being. These tips can be useful both for personal development and for improving relationships with others.

• Why are children so often glued to their phones (spoiler: they follow their parents' example);
• How to use gadgets usefully at home;
• How to make learning more interesting with the help of gadgets.

Psychologist, PhD in Psychology, works in the Department of Developmental Psychology at Moscow State University. He is a speaker for the course "Primary School Student." A large instruction manual for parents”, where she shares valuable knowledge and practical recommendations for parents who want to better understand their children and support them during their primary school years.

Child and adolescent psychologist, specializing in working with children and adolescents. I am the speaker of the course “Primary School Child. A large instruction manual for parents”, where I share valuable knowledge and practical recommendations. My goal is to help parents better understand their children, provide them with psychological support, and develop the necessary skills for successful socialization. Psychological support in childhood and adolescence plays an important role in personality development and promotes harmonious development.

Ban or allow gadgets?

According to the Internet Development Foundation, statistics show a significant increase in internet users. This indicates society's growing dependence on online resources. In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in both the number of internet users and the volume of content created online. These trends highlight the importance of a digital presence for businesses and individuals. Effective use of internet resources is becoming essential for success in the modern world. The information provided by the Foundation helps to understand how the Internet influences various spheres of life, including education, business and social interactions.

• 35% of children aged 8-12 regularly use instant messengers;
• 36% communicate on social networks;
• Mobile games have become a regular form of leisure for 45% of children under 12.

Many developed countries have introduced restrictions on the use of gadgets in educational institutions. In the United States, the ban has been in place since 2000, but its implementation varies depending on the specific school and state. In the UK, mobile phones have been banned in 50% of schools since 2007. In France and Australia, such restrictions were introduced in 2018, and in Canada - in 2019. In Israel, a ban on the use of gadgets for both students and teachers has been in effect since 2016: during lessons, phones and other electronic devices must be kept in lockers. These measures are aimed at improving the learning process and reducing distractions.

Research shows that younger students experience positive learning dynamics when bans on entertainment videos are introduced. Children begin to study more attentively and thoughtfully. It is important to note that the skill of voluntary concentration in younger students is still developing and is far from perfect. Therefore, when children are given a choice between complex and incomprehensible material or easy and entertaining content, such as TikTok videos, most of them lean toward the latter option, as it is perceived as more accessible and simpler. Supporting the development of concentration at this age can significantly impact their academic achievement and overall development.

Gadgets play an important role in learning, providing numerous opportunities to increase student interest and engagement. Numerous services exist that make classes interactive and engaging. Therefore, it is important to teach children how to properly use digital devices to find and process useful information. This will help develop their skills and prepare them for the modern demands of the educational process.

Why are we afraid to trust gadgets to children?

Let's look at several common myths.

• "Gadgets and games are detrimental to socialization." Not true: the first generation of people whose childhood was spent in the digital age has already grown up, and we do not observe any major problems with socialization among them.
• "Games are useless, they only make children dumber." Not true: There are studies proving that video games improve academic performance in math, science, and English. They satisfy children's need for exploration and develop a sense of self-competence.
• "There are many dangers on the Internet. A child can see scenes of violence or be subjected to cyberbullying." It is true: the Internet is not the safest place... just like anywhere else on Earth. But parents can teach children the basics of cybersecurity, control content, and build trusting relationships to be aware of their child's problems.

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Adapting a first-grader to school: overload, like astronauts

The transition from kindergarten to school is an important stage in life A child's lifespan can be compared to the stress experienced by astronauts. During this period, first-graders face a multitude of new experiences and demands. A change in environment, new rules, and the need to study and interact with classmates can cause stress and emotional strain.

The adaptation process includes both physical and psychological aspects. The child needs to get used to the school schedule, a new daily routine, and the demands of teachers. It is important to support them during this time, ensuring emotional stability and creating a comfortable learning environment.

Parents should be attentive to changes in their child's behavior. If they become more withdrawn or have difficulty completing homework, this may be a signal that additional support is needed. Games and activities aimed at developing social skills will help the child cope with new challenges more easily.

Adapting to school is not only difficult, but also offers new opportunities. First-graders begin to develop self-organization skills, learn to work in a team, and make decisions. Support from parents and teachers during this period is key to successful adaptation and the development of a positive attitude toward learning.

Therefore, the process of a first-grader's adaptation to school can be considered an important and challenging stage that requires the attention and support of adults. The right approach will help the child overcome difficulties and successfully integrate into school life.

Why are children glued to gadgets?

Children often follow their parents' example. Unfortunately, we ourselves become role models when we cannot part with our smartphones after work, during dinner, or on a walk. You might object: "I have work on my phone, and he only has entertainment apps!" However, if an adult parent does not know how to control the time spent on a gadget, how can you teach a child to do the same? It is important to consider whether you need rules that will limit the use of mobile devices by all family members outside of working hours. Establishing such norms will help create more quality time and strengthen family bonds. Passive recreation is an important part of leisure time and involves the absence of active activities. For example, this could be watching cartoons or spending time on social media. Adults have long appreciated the benefits of such recreation, but many parents try to shield their children from it, believing that every minute of free time should be used productively. However, it's important to remember that children also experience fatigue from clubs and studying. Aimless time spent inactive can be a necessary way for them to relax and unwind. Allow children to occasionally take a break from active activities and enjoy passive recreation so they can recharge and become more productive in the future. Passive recreation that does not provide educational benefit should be limited. Personal example plays a key role in this process. If you force your child to draw or read books while you're immersed in social media like TikTok, your child's time spent relaxing won't be a positive experience, but will instead feel like a punishment. Therefore, it is important to create an atmosphere where active and educational activities become part of the general family pastime.

Today, children communicate mainly on the Internet. Previously, they spent time in person on the streets, interacting with each other. However, in large cities, organizing safe walks for children is becoming increasingly difficult. Therefore, messaging and online communication are becoming an effective way to compensate for the lack of face-to-face communication. The internet provides children with the opportunity to maintain connections, exchange opinions, and share experiences, which is especially important in urban settings. Younger schoolchildren need to have friends and communicate by discussing various topics and forwarding memes. These activities contribute to a sense of belonging to a social group and improve overall well-being. Team games on smartphones, such as Brawl Stars, promote the development of communication skills and can form the basis for long-lasting friendships.

Motivating a child: how to maintain interest in learning

Maintaining a child's interest in learning is an important task for parents and teachers. It is important to create an atmosphere conducive to learning and development. One key aspect is understanding your child's individual interests and hobbies. Discussing school subjects with them and finding connections between the curriculum and their hobbies will help increase engagement.

Creating a positive learning environment is also important. Encouraging independence in learning, setting realistic goals, and providing choices in learning contribute to the development of intrinsic motivation. A variety of teaching methods, including games, hands-on activities, and projects, can make the learning process more engaging.

Regular support and praise for achievements, even small ones, build a child's self-confidence. It is important to establish an open dialogue so that the child feels that their opinions and feelings are valued. Therefore, maintaining interest in learning requires a comprehensive approach that includes attention, understanding, and active parental involvement.

Achieving success is crucial for young students. Success builds their confidence and helps them cope with failure. In a digital culture, children have access to a new medium for self-realization: they can create content on TikTok, get likes, and unlock new levels in games by earning points. If a child isn't excelling in academics, sports, or creativity, video games may be the only place they feel successful. It's important to support and guide children so they can use their gaming achievements as a foundation for developing confidence and a desire for success in other areas of their lives.

Parents need to recognize that screen culture for schoolchildren isn't just entertainment, but an accessible way to express themselves. If you feel your child is spending too much time on a smartphone, try to create alternative opportunities for success. Explore sports clubs, school competitions, and clubs that might interest your child. Finding an area where they can demonstrate their talents and become a leader will help them take a break from the screen.

People often have hidden feelings and needs that can manifest in various forms. For example, a fear of reality might drive them to escape into the world of violent games, where they can escape their problems. On the other hand, some seek solace in the virtual world, caring for digital plants or animals, since having real pets may be impossible for various reasons. These activities help them cope with emotional difficulties and find a way to express their feelings.

Discuss what exactly your child does when they use their phone and why they enjoy this activity. Who is their favorite game character or popular TikToker? What qualities attract them to this character? Answering these questions will help you better understand your child's needs and discover what is truly important and valuable to them. Understanding his interests will allow you to support his hobbies and direct them in a constructive direction.

Reading is an important aspect of our life that enriches us with knowledge and develops thinking. It helps improve concentration, expand vocabulary and promotes critical thinking. Whether you read fiction, scientific articles, or blogs, each text offers unique insights and perspectives. Regular reading can also reduce stress and improve overall well-being, so it's worth making time for this beneficial activity. Optimize your schedule to incorporate reading into your daily life, and you're sure to notice positive changes. Important Conversations: How to Improve Communication with Your Child Improving communication with your child is an important aspect of parenting and upbringing. Effective conversations help build trust, which in turn promotes harmonious personal development. To find common ground with your child, there are several key points to consider. First and foremost, create a comfortable atmosphere for communication. Set aside time when you can talk without distractions. This will help your child feel relaxed and open. It's also important to consider age differences: younger children need simple and understandable language, while teenagers may prefer deeper topics and questions.

Listen to your child. Active listening allows you to understand their thoughts and feelings and demonstrate that you value their opinion. Ask open-ended questions to stimulate discussion and help them express their emotions.

Be sincere and open. Share your own experiences to show that you are also human and can experience similar feelings. This will create an atmosphere of trust and allow your child to feel that they are not alone in their experiences.

Remember the importance of positive feedback. Praise your child for their achievements and efforts; this will boost their self-esteem and confidence. Clearly express your expectations and boundaries so that your child understands what is expected of them.

Finally, don't be afraid to discuss difficult topics. Talking about important topics, including emotions, relationships, and life's challenges, will help your child develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This will create the foundation for a trusting relationship and allow your child to feel supported in any situation. Building communication with your child is a process that takes time and patience. However, by focusing on each of these aspects, you can build a strong bond and create a positive space for open dialogue. How to Use a Smartphone Profitably at Home? Let your child understand that a smartphone is not just a means of entertainment but also a powerful tool for cognitive learning. Install several useful apps that will help develop their skills and broaden their horizons. At "Uchi.ru," schoolchildren can practice completing assignments on topics that require additional knowledge. Or, together with your parents, go over topics that were missed in class for some reason.

Games not only facilitate mastery of the school curriculum but also help develop soft skills. If your child is fascinated by a game, even if it seems insignificant to you, ask them to teach you how to play. This process will allow your child to improve their communication skills and give them the opportunity to learn how to explain and share their knowledge with others. Thus, gaming becomes not only entertainment but also a valuable tool for personal growth and development.

Another often undervalued smartphone feature is listening to audio stories and fairy tales. In the age of YouTube, audio stories have faded into the background, giving way to cartoons. However, this is unfair, as audio stories have a significant impact on cognitive development: they foster imagination and language development without overloading children's brains with vivid visual images. Audio stories help children focus on the content, develop critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, making them an important tool for learning and entertainment.

A smartphone can be a powerful tool for a child's creative expression. Many children enjoy creating videos for YouTube, which can include toy reviews, drawing tutorials, or walkthroughs of popular video games. It's important to support your child's creativity, even if you feel their content is copying the ideas of other authors. We all learn by imitating others: initially, we copy, and then we create something unique. Give your child the opportunity to develop their interests—perhaps what seems strange to you will become their future career path.

How to Use a Smartphone in the Classroom

There are many digital game solutions that can be effectively used in the classroom. One such tool is Wordwall. This resource allows you to create groups or collections of words united by a common theme. Although Wordwall is most often used by foreign language teachers, its capabilities can also be applied to other subjects, such as literature, worldview, history, and many others. Using "word walls" promotes active student engagement and improves their understanding of the material, which makes learning more interactive and productive.

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MyQuiz is a Russian analogue of the popular platforms Kahoot! and Mentimeter, offering users the ability to create interactive quizzes and surveys. MyQuiz makes it easy to organize engaging and educational events that promote active audience participation. The platform offers a user-friendly interface for creating questions, adding various types of tasks, and tools for analyzing results. MyQuiz is ideal for educational institutions, corporate training, and entertainment, helping to make learning and interaction more engaging and effective. Localized and adapted for the Russian market, MyQuiz is an excellent alternative to foreign services, offering unique features and capabilities for users. Kaspersky Lab is implementing a large-scale project in Russia called "Digital Lesson," aimed at improving the digital literacy of schoolchildren and promoting digital professions. The project offers over 20 ready-made lessons covering digitalization topics. This project promotes the development of the skills necessary for successful adaptation in the modern digital world and helps schoolchildren master current technologies. Students can learn the basics of programming, cybersecurity, data analysis, and many other important aspects of the digital economy. "Digital Lesson" supports educational institutions by offering innovative teaching materials and resources, enabling teachers to effectively integrate digital technologies into the educational process. Internet safety, digital music/art, game and app development, driverless vehicles, and more. All lessons can be conducted in the classroom using smartphones, making the process not only engaging but also beneficial for students. The use of mobile devices promotes interactive learning and increases interest in the educational material.

The inclusion of gadgets in the learning process requires preliminary planning and methodological justification. Not all teachers have the necessary skills or willingness to integrate new technologies into their lessons. Fortunately, there are continuing professional education programs that teach teachers how to effectively use gadgets in the classroom. For example, the "Continuing Professional Education of Educational Organization Employees" portal offers a variety of courses, and Skillbox offers a specialized course "Online Teacher." These educational initiatives help teachers master innovative approaches and improve the quality of teaching using modern technologies.

To summarize

• Gadgets have become a part of modern childhood. They can't simply be ignored; they can be used for good.
• Children are glued to gadgets because they follow their parents' example, try to relax and recharge from school, or seek communication and success in virtual reality.
• If a child spends a lot of time on their phone, it means they are learning something important there. Talk to your child, ask about their activities, and try to use their interests to create more meaningful leisure time away from their phone.
• Smartphones can enrich the educational environment both in the classroom and at home. The key is for both teachers and parents to explore their capabilities.

This section provides additional resources for your review. We recommend that you read them for a deeper understanding of the topic.

• Raising a teenager: advice from a psychologist
• 8 services that will help you create an interactive and engaging online course
• How to detox from your smartphone for the sake of studying