Technology’s help and impact on children’s social and emotional development

In today's digital age, technology plays an increasingly important role in children's lives. While technology can provide many benefits, it can also have a negative impact on children’s social and emotional development. Here, we explore how technology can both help and impact children’s social and emotional development. 

Technology can provide children with a range of resources to help them learn and grow. For example, educational apps, videos, and games can help children develop new skills and knowledge. Additionally, technology can help children stay connected to family and friends, especially during times of social distancing.

Here’s how technology can help with social and emotional development:

Connect with others:

Technology can help children stay connected to family and friends who are far away from them, especially during times of social distancing.

Get information and resources:

Technology can provide children with access to information and resources, such as educational videos, games and apps.

Express creativity:

Technology can provide opportunities for children to express their creativity, for example through digital art or writing stories.

However, excessive screen use can have a negative impact on children's social and emotional development.

Excessive screen use may lead to reduced opportunities for face-to-face communication and social interaction, thereby affecting the development of social skills. Additionally, exposure to inappropriate or harmful content through technology can impact children’s emotional and psychological development.

Here are some helpful tips for managing your children’s screen time:

1. Establish clear limits: Set clear rules and boundaries around screen time. For example, limit your child's screen time each day and designate certain periods of time for use.

2. Encourage other activities: Encourage your child to participate in a variety of other activities, such as outdoor play, reading, arts and crafts, and physical exercise. Make sure you provide them with age-appropriate and stimulating toys, games and activities.

3. Choose educational content: When your children use screens, choose educational content that is appropriate for their age and interests. Find educational apps, games, and videos designed to teach new skills and concepts.

4. Monitor usage: Track your child’s screen time and review their screen time habits regularly to make sure they are adhering to set rules and boundaries.​

5. Set a good example: Model healthy screen habits. Children learn by watching their parents, so make sure you limit screen time and engage in other activities yourself, too.

6. Use parental controls: Many devices and apps come with parental controls that allow you to restrict access to certain content or set screen time limits. Take advantage of these features to help manage your kids' screen time.

While technology can provide valuable learning and social opportunities, it’s also important to promote healthy technology habits and balance screen time with other activities.