Here’s why you should encourage your kids to have regular digital detoxes
In today’s world, especially while living through a pandemic, it is impossible to avoid screens altogether. With the ever-increasing advancements in technology, screens have integrated themselves into our lives and are here to stay. With online schooling becoming a norm, students spend several hours at a stretch with mobile, tab or laptop screens. Even most of their social interactions take place online now. However, this overexposure can lead to several problems related to teen mental health.
Although it is unrealistic to ask kids to completely do away with screens, encouraging him to practise digital detoxes once in a while can prove to be extremely beneficial. Read on to know what a digital detox is, and why it should be implemented by teens.
What is a digital detox?
Digital detox refers to a period of time when a person avoids using smartphones, TVs, laptops and other such tech devices. Moreover, usage of the internet and social media should be avoided for some time. It is an effective method to avoid distractions and draw more focus on real life. Understandably, for today’s kids, it might be difficult to stay away from screens and social media. However, once or twice a month, especially during the weekend, is a good frequency to begin with digital detox.
Why you should encourage your teen to digitally detox
Constant connectivity leads to stress which can deter your kids from having peace and calm. Unchecked use of technology can lead to sleep problems, anxiety, lack of concentration, self-image problems and a plethora of such issues. In such cases, a digital detox can be beneficial. We tell you how.
It will bring more tranquillity to your kid’s life: Unplugging from technology will improve your child’s quality of life immensely. For starters, it will keep distractions at bay and allow them to be more mindful and present. This will naturally result in lower stress levels.
It will make him more productive: Mindless scrolling, posting, liking, commenting and surfing the net can be a very time-consuming affair. Your school goer may not even be aware of the number of hours passing by while doing so. A break from tech will allow him to snap back into focus and concentrate on getting the pending things done.
It will help her have a positive body image: Social media and the internet, in general, are filled with unrealistic and unattainable beauty standards. They can have a serious effect on your teenager’s body image. Cutting back on social media time will be beneficial in preventing her from comparing with others.
It will regulate his sleep cycle: A digital detox can help in regulating your teen’s sleep cycle effectively. A chemical known as melatonin is released by the body when it senses that it’s time to sleep. Being engrossed in the mobile phone in bed delays the release of this chemical, which leads to discrepancies in the sleep cycle. Over time, it can potentially have a negative effect on his mood and health.