25th March 2014 9:00
By Blue Tutors
A new study by a children’s charity has concluded that overuse of electronic screens and baby equipment such as pens and pushchairs could be harming development. The charity ‘Watch?’ has said that modern lifestyles are impeding children’s emotional and physical development. Particular concerns raised relate to increased use of smartphones, tablets and other technology, in addition to restricting children’s movement by strapping them into chairs and pens. The charity promotes secure attachment between parents and child, and said that modern technology is getting in the way.
Explaining their concerns, the charity said that children were not receiving enough attentions from parents, and cited parents using smart phones constantly and not making eye contact with their children. Arguing that the first three years of life shape a child’s emotional, physical and mental health forever, the charity is urging consistent, loving care. Social engagement is a crucial aspect of this, and parents are being warned that they are not spending enough time engaged with their children if they are always using smartphones, electronic readers and computers.
The charity has said that social engagement early on is linked to better academic performance later on, and urged parents to be attuned and responsive. They recommended supervised opportunities for unrestricted movement, play, reading and general attention from parents. They also said that parents should be aware of their children’s emotion state and respond to them appropriately. They concluded that it is necessary for parent to take these steps to encourage positive and consistent relationships at an early age, which promote general well-being throughout adult life.