IMPACT OF THE INTERNET ON A CHILD’S GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT TODAY

The internet is one of the greatest inventions made by man. It’s an ever-present part of our daily lives. The internet provides people with an incredible supply of knowledge and enjoyment. Today, most people – children no exception, spend a considerable time on the net either for work, school or just for fun. People feel the need to stay connected and on-trend without any limitations and restrictions. When used correctly, the internet can boost a child’s development positively. However, with all this constant immersion on the internet, serious negative concerns have been reported on how a child’s development. It’s therefore a parent’s job to find the right ways for their little one to interact while on the internet. Parental control apps such as FamiSafe are a clever innovation that helps keep an eye on the children’s activities. FameSafe  is equipped with a locationtracker to know exactly where and what your kids are doing. It’s every parent go-to software that is effective in limiting the screen time for kids, locationtracking, website filtering just to name a few. Below is a highlight of some pros and cons to a child’s growth;

PROS OF THE INTERNET

• LEARNING SUPPORT

Modern-day society has seen an increase in the number of internet and technological products in children’s lives. There are many educational elements to write home about that enhances learning. Thanks to the internet, there is a library with an infinite number of resource material. Children have access to a wide range of information, do research and learn about different subjects. The more subjects a child gets interested in, the more his or her IQ.

• SKILLS PROBLEM-SOLVING

The internet enhances creativity in a world full of unknowns. Creativity results in new solutions to new emerging problems. When kids have problem-solving skills, it allows them to overcome obstacles in the future. Games and apps on tablets or smartphones can help give children the practice they need to find success down the road.

• IMPROVED MULTITASKING

Studies show that the internet helps young children to multitask more effectively. As the internet continues to evolve, there will be more demand for professionals ready to take on technology careers. Children from an early age can learn how to listen, type notes all the while multitasking with other activities that can grow their careers in future.

CONS OF THE INTERNET

• STAGNATES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

The use of the internet often means time spent sitting. Even with portable devices such as mobile phones, most of the activities are mostly done while still. Children spend a lot of time with their garget which means less outdoor playtime. In extreme conditions, some children even choose to forgo important day to day activities such as eating and sleeping for a longer screen time. To counteract this, parents should set aside time every day for physical play and reading where no electronics are present.

• LOSS OF ATTENTION AND IMAGINATION

Little attention span is perhaps the most raised concern by parents when it comes to the internet. With technology advancement, children are quickly distracted and are less likely to focus on other activities. Not surprisingly, the increased use of the internet has led to a decrease in daily reading. When it comes to visual stimuli, children hooked on the screen are reported to be less imaginative. It’s vital then to have a balance between technology and old-fashioned play such as reading physical books.

• PRIVACY INFRINGEMENT

Advances in technology and the internet has led to increased levels of connectedness. Children are now getting their way into social media which can foster both good and bad implications to privacy and safety. Children can be exposed to illegal sites such as pornography or various degrees of bullying that can impact on their self-esteem. It’s important to know all the activities your children are exploring online and encourage open conversation so that they can share any concerning behaviours they come across online.