The relationship of children and adolescents with technology is an increasingly controversial issue in the digital society. The use of screens, from mobile phones and consoles to tablets and computers, is part of young people’s daily lives. For this reason, the phenomenon raises the need to establish clear guidelines that guide parents and educators in the proper handling of these tools, thus ensuring that they contribute to the development of minors without compromising their emotional and social well-being.
To begin with, Dr. Rosa Díaz, psychologist responsible for the Addictive Behaviors in Adolescents program at Clínic Barcelona, explains that, from zero to three years old, children should not have access to screens. As experts emphasize, certain exceptions are allowed, but, as Dr. Díaz clarifies, “in principle no screen should be left freely in your hands.” At this stage, physical interaction and play are essential on the cognitive and emotional levels.
Given a possible dependency, it is recommended to apply time and space limitations
Exposure to technological devices can be introduced between the ages of three and six. In any case, this specialist suggests that use should be very limited, and always supervised. Gradually introducing screen use, up to a maximum of half an hour a day, helps teach children how to handle technology responsibly. The progressive approach has to be accompanied by an adult who guarantees safety.
“From the age of six to twelve, the time of daily use can be increased, up to approximately one hour, always with supervision,” explains Dr. Díaz.
It is vital to continue educating children about safe content. Adolescents aged twelve or older can be offered more leeway, although with conditions, such as “a contract for the use or withdrawal of the device if they are not using it properly,” the expert recommends.
Rules must be established and the hours of exposure agreed upon, since parents or guardians are ultimately responsible for the physical and mental health of minors. Not in vain, dependency can deteriorate personal relationships and alter the normal course of life. Preventing Internet addiction from early childhood is essential, both on a health, social and educational level. Dr. Díaz adds that it is advisable to leave the device in a fixed place in the house to consult it when necessary and avoid using it during meals and at night.
“Psychoeducation” with families and minors promotes correct use of technology and removes possible risks. Internet addiction can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including video games, social media, gambling, online entertainment or pornography, and cybersex. Each of these dependencies presents unique challenges and requires specific strategies to manage.
Between six and twelve years old, screen time can be increased, up to one hour, but with supervision
Promoting healthy use of technologies involves knowing the applications that children and adolescents frequent, finding out who they interact with, establishing schedules and respecting sleeping, eating and, of course, studying hours. The fact of agreeing on these rules and being firm in the fair and respectful consequences of non-compliance favors communication.
Likewise, minors are taught in this way a set of these emotional and social skills. If, in addition, parents or educators propose healthy leisure alternatives and provide a good example, they will be guiding young people very well. The Hospital Clínic Barcelona has prepared a document with recommendations aimed at families in this area. As with other challenges, early intervention and professional support are key.
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