The Right Amount, (of what?)

Gadgets are a necessity for grown-ups and have become a necessity for students. Parents of today should not actively block gadgets, but regulate. This allows for your child to adapt and get a rough introduction to gadgets while being guided by the appropriate adults.

According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, gadgets should never be introduced to 1-year-olds. From ages 1-6, a rough but very limited introduction is permitted. 6-12 must mostly be used for productive and meaningful activities. 12 is the age where the entirety of gadgets is to be accessed by a child. All adults and guardians must be aware that it is their responsibility to introduce, approve, as well as monitor the use of gadgets in children.

Parents Must:

• Explain proper internet etiquette.

• Regulate the use of gadgets and emphasize balancing other activities instead of gadgets.

• Either train their child to become resilient, or help them avoid content that could be harmful to their growth or may cause discomfort (cyberbullying, inappropriate websites).

The guide from the AAP is not a strict guideline, but a highly recommended schedule based on facts and research. It is entirely possible for a child to become the “ideal modern child” while not following the AAP, however, this all depends on their parents. Be assertive and understanding when setting the regulations and do not use technology as an alternative to the warmth a parent should be giving.

Taken from Sahwahita Online Parenting Class (n.d).