The media can have both positive and negative effects on childhood development, depending on whether parents supervise their children or not. Therefore, parents and caregivers need to monitor the media content that their children consume and limit excessive exposure to harmful media. Instead, encourage children to engage in other activities such as outdoor activities, reading, and creative play.
This article discusses ways in which media can impact a child’s development.
How media affects child development
Cognitive development
Children exposed to educational and informative media such as documentaries, educational games, and books can enhance their cognitive abilities. However, too much exposure to violent or overly stimulating media may negatively affect attention, memory, and language development.
Social development
Media can influence social interactions and relationships. Excessive media use can decrease face-to-face communication and socialization, resulting in poor social skills.
Emotional development
Media can impact a child’s emotional development by influencing their moods and behaviors. For example, excessive exposure to violent or harmful press can lead to aggression, anxiety, and depression.
Physical development
Children who spend excessive time on media can lead a sedentary lifestyle, negatively affecting their physical health.
Sleep habits
Exposure to media at night, especially screen time, can interfere with sleep habits, leading to sleep deprivation and impacting a child’s mood, behavior, and academic performance.
Five ways to prevent the negative impact of media on child
Here are five ways to avoid the adverse effects of media on children:
1. Set limits on screen time
Limiting how much time children spend on electronic devices such as TV, smartphones, and tablets is essential. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 2-5 have no more than one hour of screen time daily.
2. Monitor media content
It is essential to monitor the content of the media that children consume. Parents should ensure that the press is age-appropriate, educational, and informative. Additionally, parents should avoid exposing children to violent or overly stimulating media.
3. Encourage alternative activities
Encourage children to engage in alternative activities such as outdoor play, reading, and creative play. This will help children develop social, cognitive, and emotional skills.
4. Create media-free zones
Designate specific areas in the home as media-free zones, such as the dining room or bedroom. This will encourage children to communicate face-to-face and socialize with family members.
5. Be a role model
Finally, parents should be good role models by limiting their screen time and engaging in alternative activities. This will encourage children to follow suit and reduce their dependence on electronic devices.
Takeaway home
Media and entertainment are an integral part of our lives now. Nowadays, studies are also based on the internet and web-based. So it is essential to supervise your child while on the net and using the internet. By encouraging alternative activities and monitoring media content to help watch your child’s activity and prevent them from negative media impact, one may lessen the adverse effects to almost negligible.