Ten year old Rahul “just can’t” leave his home without his mobile. He often misses out on his books, sometimes his lunch box, and sometimes even his dad’s orders. But one thing that he can never forget to carry with himself is his new-found, latest, happening toy, his Nokia N75.
Rohan, thirteen, who is already a die-hard gizmo freak, swears by his mobile which he says, is the most expensive gift given to him by his parents.
Mobile phones are increasingly becoming a fashion statement, not only among the adults but school going children as well. Mobiles are their toys which they can flaunt in their schools and earn the attention of their classmates and constant communication with parents.
No longer, the privilege of a chosen few, mobiles have now become indispensible part of our everyday lives. And children are among the huge beneficiaries of this growing trend, wherein, they get to click pictures, take videos, play games, listen to music, download and store songs, send messages, browse the internet, although the basic feature that is “talking” becomes a side feature for them.
You may want to give your children the latest 3G enabled chic gadget that he or she can flaunt to their friends, but then would it be worth it?
Children are quick learners and they don’t take time to adapt to new, fast growing technology, unlike adults. And all the more, they enjoy it and many a times actually teach elders the mechanics of operating new gadgets. But too much use of mobile phones, can become an addiction. Mobiles given to children as a form of a “communication tool”, wherein it is easier to keep track of kids when they are out with friends or at parties, is advisable. It becomes a way of keeping in touch with your children and knowing their whereabouts.
When can mobiles with kids become unsafe?
Mobiles can be a major distraction when it becomes an addiction with the child, and he tends to spend most of his time with the gadget, either playing games or browsing or sending messages, it can be a cause for concern. A child loses his precious time, which he can otherwise devote to other constructive activities, in fidgeting with the phone. There comes a time, when the child spends a considerable amount of time with the mobile, and loses track of his studies, hobbies and interacts lesser with his family members.
How do mobiles affect health?
The international groups of researchers have advised parents to not let children overuse mobile phones, as the electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones may be risky for their health. Children, being young, are prone to brain tumors, ear defects, headaches and blurring of vision, as a result of overuse of mobile phones.
Also, as children’s nervous system is not fully developed and have thinner scalps and skulls than adults, they are more susceptible to the effects of electromagnetic radiations.
The following health hazards can be the result of overuse of mobiles by children:
- Disruption of memory and decline in attention
- Diminished learning and cognitive abilities
- Irritability and sleeping problems
What can the parents do?
- Parents must allow the use of the mobile only when it is absolutely necessary for the child to carry it. Instead of restricting its use, parents can explain their children, the harms related to overuse of mobile phones and can preach balanced use of the gadget so that it doesn’t harm their health and studies.
- The key lies in making children understand the importance of using mobiles responsibly and helping them indulge in more interesting hobbies that they can pursue in their free time.
- Encourage the use of hands free, if the conversation is for long.
- Children must strictly be instructed not to use their “gadget toys” while eating, studying, sleeping and doing other important things.
