How cell phones are creating an anxious generation, and what we can do about it.

R.Madhwal Veteran & Farmer

Kids in India always had play-base childhoods in our cities and villages , but we gradually let that fade away because of rapid urbanisation and pressure of home work beginning in the 1980s and 1990s, Which was further compounded by technology. In the 1990s, we thought the internet was going to make our children smarter. Because most of us were techno-optimists, we didn’t really raise alarms when our kids started spending four, five, six and now seven to nine hours a day on their phones and other screens. 

Actually, we’ve overprotected our children in the real world and we’ve under-protected them online. And for both halves of that, you can see how we did that thinking that it was going to be OK. We were wrong on both points.

Now we’re a few years past Covid-19, past the school closures, past the masks, and what has become clear to everyone is that kids are not all right. And the data on rates of mental illness shows us that most of the increase was in place long before Covid-19 arrived.

What are the norms that will solve this crisis?

1: No smartphones before 12th. We must clear them out of middle school and high school.

2: No social media until 16. These platforms were not made for children. They appear to be especially harmful for children. Establish rules around screen time and social media use. Define specific times when devices are allowed and when they’re off-limits.

3. Children often mimic what they see. If they see adults spending excessive time on their phones or social media, they’re likely to do the same. Set a good example by limiting your own screen time and engaging in offline activities.

4. Provide plenty of opportunities for children to engage in offline activities such as reading, sports, arts and crafts, or spending time outdoors. Encourage hobbies and interests that don’t involve screens.

5. Teach children about the potential risks associated with excessive screen time and social media use, such as cyberbullying, privacy issues, and addiction. Encourage open communication so they feel comfortable discussing any concerns they may have.

6. Instead of simply restricting their access, engage with children in activities that involve meaningful interaction and learning. This could include playing games together, exploring nature, or having conversations about their interests and experiences.

By implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can help minimize children’s reliance on mobile devices and social media while promoting healthy habits and development.