Children glued on the computer

If well monitored, using a computer helps minors develop self-confidence and self-esteem, writes JOHN MUTURI

With the long Christmas holidays here with us, most children are basically glued to their computers and video games. Bearing in mind the negative impact of technology, for some parents, this is a big cause for concern.

But they need not worry too much about this because research shows that computers can have significant benefits for even children.

They include such things as improving their readiness for school, academic achievement, language, literacy, and social development, in addition to important problem-solving skills. It is not unusual, therefore, for parents to buy loads of DVDs and games to keep their children busy during the school holidays. Many parents will feel at ease as they work in their offices because their children are kept busy at home.

It is important, however, to realise that computers are most beneficial when parents and teachers provide appropriate guidance to the child.

You may not wish to appear to be controlling what the child is doing, but he or she will benefit more if you are there to share the discoveries and help

solve a problem.

Of course if your child is older she may only need you on hand for discussion and questions. When you get home from work, it is important to join your child in a computer game and observe the way she is using the computer.

This interaction will help you understand how your child thinks, learns and solves problems.

In order to monitor what the child is doing, the computer should be placed in a common space shared by the family, such as the sitting room or learning centre. Also knowing the content of the website the child is navigating is important. Much of the available software for children focuses on being both fun and educational.

When choosing a computer program for your child, remember that children are much more likely to learn if they truly enjoy the activity. Look for programs that make them laugh and challenge their minds at the same time.

Parents should familiarise themselves with software for children, and carefully preview it because some are not appropriate.

No lone ranger tactics

For instance, computer games that depict killing and destruction as fun or as an acceptable way to solve problems can be harmful. In deed, when you are conversant with the software, you will comfortably answer questions and suggest activities that reinforce what children are learning on and off the computer.

If your child is forever on the computer alone, she will not reap the full benefits of the computer. It has been established that there are significant gains in cognitive development in children using computers, only when there is an adult available to assist the child.

It is, therefore, important not only to work with your child on the computer, but also encourage her to work with a sibling or friend whenever possible. This encourages important social skills, such as turn-taking and cooperation, in addition to helping build the child’s ability to speak and listen.

At the same time, parents have to ensure that computers do not monopolise their child’s time at home. In deed, we should understand and ensure that the computer supplements, rather than replaces educational activities such as art, books, music, outdoor exploration, dramatic play and socialising with other children.

Hence parents should encourage a mix of tasks for the child throughout the day. It is recommended that they take frequent breaks from computer use and participate in a variety of activities that involve changes in posture and physical movement.

In deed, sitting on the computer, just like watching TV or texting on the mobile phone, should be limited to less than two hours a day.

Vision problems

Children get very absorbed and lose count of the amount of time they are spending at a computer. They end up performing a task for hours with few breaks. This can cause eye focusing and eye-strain problems, eventually leading to progressive short sightedness or myopia.

Moreover, a child’s visual system is not well developed and until it is, she is not able to handle the stress of a computer. It is, therefore, recommended that children should leave the computer every 20 to 30 minutes to stand and stretch.