In today’s era, technology has changed pretty much everything; including the way we work, live, and learn. It has made life a lot easier in many ways, but it also presents some challenges that we need to navigate, especially when it comes to our kids. They’re growing up in a world filled with gadgets and screens, which is great because it makes them ready for a future that’s increasingly tech-focused. But, like everything else, it’s all about finding the right balance.
Think about online learning, for instance. It’s convenient, flexible, and has many benefits. But too much screen time can also affect our kids’ health—causing issues like eye strain, headaches and disrupting their sleep schedule. Not to mention, it could spike their anxiety levels too.
So, what can we do to strike a balance? Here’s what we suggest:
Table of Contents
1. Setting some ground rules:
We all lose track of time when scrolling through Instagram or watching our favourite shows. So, setting up rules about when and how long we can use our devices can help reduce screen time. This way, we’ll also have more time for family bonding or physical activities. For example, how about we all agree not to use our devices during dinner? Or dedicate an entire day to digital detox by indulging in non-digitalafter-school activities.
2. Being mindful of how and when screens are used:
It’s crucial for parents to teach their kids to self-regulate their screen usage. By setting clear rules and using parental control tools, they can ensure that their children are using their devices responsibly. It’s also a good idea to have separate devices for schoolwork and personal use. Some of the best schools in Bangalore teach children at an early age about the advantages of regulated screen time to maintain a tech-life balance.
3. Having some screen-free time:
Encourage your children to set aside time for screen-free activities such as diving into a good book, taking a refreshing walk, or playing an instrument. These breaks not only cut down on screen time or help reduce technology’s impact on students, but they also give everyone a chance to connect with each other.
4. Adjusting tech expectations:
It’s not feasible to expect kids to cut out tech completely. So, the goal should be to help them moderate their tech usage, like encouraging them only to use tech for schoolwork during study hours. There are several schools in ITPL that offer alternatives to screen-based activities, showing students the importance of a balanced lifestyle.
5. Limiting app notifications:
Do you ever find yourself distracted by a notification that says 50% off at your favourite online store? Yes? Well, kids experience the same with their apps. By helping them to limit these notifications, they can focus better on their online classes and other activities. Which, in turn, will help them reduce their screen time.
6. Not looking everything up immediately:
It’s important to show your kids that they don’t need to run to Google every time they have a question or problem. Sure, it’s easier, but it also makes them overly dependent on technology. Let’s lead by example and show them that it’s okay not to have instant answers. This approach can also reduce screen time plus improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Schools in Byrathi are even training students to excel with limited internet access to ensure they build strong skills for a successful future.
7. Unplugging before bedtime:
Our last tip, but certainly not least, is to support your kids to shut down their devices about 30–40 minutes before bedtime. It might seem tough, but trust us, this small change can make a big difference to sleep quality. Plus, it is also a great opportunity for them to replace screen time with calming activities like reading or meditation.
In a nutshell, technology is here to stay, and it’s a big part of our lives, especially for our kids. But we have to ensure that it is enhancing their lives, not causing problems. And to do just that, finding the right balance is a must.
At Ekya Schools, we’ve adopted an educational approach that stresses the importance of this balance. We monitor internet usage, establish tech rules, and regulate digital activity. As one of the renowned CBSE schools in Bangalore, we’re committed to helping each student achieve their personal and academic goals. If you want a quality education that’s about more than just academics, enrol today!
