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Middle Years (7-12)

Wired kids Can high-tech mean high risk? By Amanda EstepPublished: July, 2009

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More than ever, kids interact with some form of technology every day. They are constantly exposed to computers, video games, music players and cell phones – among a variety of other state-of-the-art devices – and in recent years parents have asked a number of disturbing questions: How much tech exposure is too much? And is the growing concern tech- related or kid-related? “It seems that the biggest problem with technology is not so much with the device in particular but that kids are ‘wired’ to a device almost all of their waking hours,” says Karen Child Ogden, a licensed marriage and family therapist who is well-versed in the problems related to compulsive addictions. “The most problematic devices by far are the cell phone, computer (particularly the Internet) and video games – both online and traditional video games such as Nintendo.”     Children are being exposed to technology at a very young age. Educational and tech media can be a wonderful thing. But their developing minds may also be affected negatively if technology is not monitored and controlled. What can parents do?     “Parents can keep in mind that the task of childhood is to prepare them for adult life and adult relationships,” says Ogden. “Allowing them to spend too much time with technology will NOT serve them as adults. Keep in mind the atmosphere of your home and ask yourself the following questions:     “Is the TV always on as background noise? Does the computer take center stage in the home, inviting and encouraging kids to use it rather than playing outside or interacting with family members? What are the rules surrounding cell phone use? Is it permissible at school, during homework time, at dinnertime, during church service, at night?     “Consider implementing rules around cell phone use such as handing over all cell phones to parents after 5 p.m.,” continues Ogden. “Are you as parents addicted to your cell phone, Blackberry or computer? The behavior regarding technology that you display will be absorbed by your children.”     Cell phones in particular are one of the most popular forms of technology among children; parents need to be constantly aware of their use – and possible abuse.     “The cell phone should be of particular concern to parents,” says Ogden, who sees these devices as the area of greatest risk. “Especially phones with multiple applications such as the Internet, gaming, texting and cameras. These components are a potentially dangerous combination for the curious teenager.”     Because cell phones are carried throughout the day and night, Internet exposure is continuous and un-checked. Total trust would be ideal, but the seemingly limitless number of Web sites – not to mention Internet predators – makes the devices potentially very dangerous. Using Web filters can be an effective tool to keep your kids safe.     A multitude of other problems crop up when tweens are constantly exposed to tech devices, says Ogden: They include the distraction, impatience and anxiousness related to social networking media; eye and repetitive finger strain; and problems with English, due to the near-constant use of abbreviations used when texting.        Dealing with kids and their tech devices could be a tricky task. Their use should be used as an incentive to first take care of responsibilities such as homework and shared housework. And limit their use.     “Although today’s kids seem to possess the skills to operate almost any device,” says Ogden,” I do think that there are more disadvantages and dangers to tweens’ high-tech lifestyle. The task of childhood is to explore, experience and learn appropriate social behavior. Being so tech-focused takes kids away from face-to-face communication and relationships hindering social and relationship skills.”   Amanda Estep is an intern for OC Family magazine. UNPLUG THE KIDS: LOW-TECH FUN There are many ways to get your kid unplugged. Encouraging a fun variety of kid-friendly activities can be practiced every day. Here are a few examples that will help keep your children healthy, happy and unplugged: > If your children are younger, set up play dates with other kids to continue expanding their social skills. > Enjoy an afternoon in the park, or a multitude of other outdoor activities that will help them reconnect with the real world. > Get your kids involved with all kinds of activities and classes. > Encourage them to play team sports or start a hobby. Give them piano or dance lessons, for example.

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