Introduce technology carefully to children

As society has transitioned into the 21st century's technological advances, it is safe to say that nearly all people now are dependent on an array of electronic devices. With that being said, nowadays, many teenagers and adults had the transition period of having no technology to gaining access to such mechanics. This transition allowed people to understand the value of a screen-free environment, but also recognize the importance of these advancements.

However, the children that have been born into this modern society may have a harder time grasping the significance of getting away from technology. Since a young age, they have had iPads and tablets pressed against their faces and because of this, they haven't been exposed to a world without technology.

This exposure may satisfy younger generations for some time, however, it is going to hurt them more in the long term. According to Jennifer F. Cross of New York-Presbyterian Komansky Children's Hospital, "Excessive screen time may inhibit a child's ability to observe and experience the typical everyday activities they need to engage with in order to learn about the world, leading to a kind of 'tunnel vision,' which can be detrimental to overall development" in imagination, social interaction, and cognition.

In my experience with younger children, there have been times that I call their name - not once, but multiple times - and receive no sort of response due to their infatuation with screens.

Many parents have used screen-time restrictions to try to prevent these issues. This does not stop children from forming technology addictions and, because of that, having temper tantrums or bad attitudes.

Parents need to keep young children away from screens until an appropriate age, and when they do introduce technology, assure that time is limited and that the parent is there watching over.

Ava Orr

Glen Ellyn