At no other time in history has smartphones and technology dominated our lives like it does today. Most descendants own a television and computer, and many of life’s everyday activities involve the use of technology. The kids these days are far lucky to carry out doing the simple Maths they can on technology. As we live life at a mighty pace in this modern high-tech world, very few stop to ask, is modern technology serving us well? Socials have switched the way we surmise and converse.

Activities such as shared family meals, outdoor play, and social interaction with a diverse community have been replaced by computer games and television. This is seen even among couples where the husband might be in the living room in his world whilst the wife will be in the bedroom on the phone. Co-workers at offices don’t want to react or socialise during lunch hours. Some are seen sitting far away with their little smartphones in.

Parents and schools are under increasing pressure to fully “prepare” children to embark on life in the real world. However, I am not convinced that the early introduction of computers and modern technology into young lives is a good foundation on which to build.

Many parents feel justified in allowing their children some revelation to television. Some parents believe that without smartphone use their children are missing out on valuable learning or that they are raising young people who will find it difficult to fit in with modern life. Some limits may be placed on children’s habits with only children’s programmes and documentaries being allowed.

In my own experience and experimentation with television, I know that all too familiar need for some ‘head space’ or time out from parenting. Unfortunately, at times television has been used in our homes as the “electronic babysitter.”

In our attempts to meet our own needs and to raise happy, healthy children have we stopped however to consider the real cost of not finding other alternatives? Exposure to television and smartphones also introduces many new concepts and potential violence into young minds. Children who witness continual acts of violence on television are more likely to act in aggressive ways, become desensitised to acts of violence, harbour fears of being a victim of violence, and have a higher tendency towards violent and aggressive behaviour later in life.

Life in front of the square box denies children the opportunity for physical play. Time outdoors is vital for children’s well-being and development. Meaningful, interactive play is important to allow children to explore the world around them and social opportunities with others.

Mathew Litty
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