Embracing the Digital Age – A Grandfather’s Dilemma : Part 1

#08

“Aaba, I want to start my own vlog. Will you help me?” Samihan (9).

When my nine-year-old grandson asked me this question, I found myself at a crossroads. As a grandfather with over 50 years of experience as a developmental pediatrician and a Ph.D. in child growth and development, I’ve always preached about the dangers of screen time, mobile devices, and the negative impacts of technology on young minds. Yet here was my grandson, full of curiosity, eager to learn and create something new in a world shaped by technology.

So, should I shut him down? Should I push him away from modern tools that might define his future? As much as I want to rely on my decades-old knowledge, I realized that times have changed. My decisions today cannot be rooted in the past. Instead of sending him to a ‘typing class,’ I now must consider encouraging his exploration of the digital world, just as I would have embraced a computer class back in the day.

Today’s children are introduced to gadgets before they even learn to walk or talk. If mobile devices haven’t “ruined” adults, why do we assume they’ll harm children? The real issue isn’t the devices themselves – it’s our fear of the unknown. We’re unfamiliar with the effects of this new technology, and that fear drives our concerns. It’s reminiscent of the initial reactions to landlines, television, and even the internet. At first, we resisted these innovations, but once we became familiar with them, we accepted their place in our lives.

The digital revolution has already reshaped the world, and it’s up to us to prepare our children for this 21st-century reality. They need to be taught how to use technology safely and responsibly. We teach them how to ride bicycles, drive cars, and swim – the same logic should apply to the digital realm.

The Benefits of Digital Technology for Children

1. Children Become Independent Learners
   A well-made video can teach a child more than any textbook. The internet opens up worlds of knowledge, offering general information, confidence, and even new hobbies. It fosters independent learning in ways that traditional education might not.
2. Creates Social Harmony
   Digital platforms provide a space for communication and cooperation, allowing children to connect with like-minded peers. Whether it’s through online games, hobbies, or video chats, technology offers opportunities for interaction that extend beyond school walls.
3. Encourages Imagination and Participation
   Technology encourages children to think creatively and engage actively in their learning. Whether it’s by completing tasks online or developing perseverance through games, the digital world fosters growth in a fun and interactive way.
4. Broadens Horizons through the Internet
   The internet helps children understand different perspectives, cultures, and global issues. With the right guidance, children can develop empathy, awareness, and an appreciation for the diversity of the world.

The “Goldilocks Effect”

The key to benefiting from technology is moderation. The Goldilocks Effect suggests that, like Goldilocks finding the perfect bowl of porridge, there’s an ideal amount of time children should spend online. Too much or too little can be harmful, but research shows that 1-2 hours a day is optimal for mental well-being. Beyond this, the risks increase, so it’s essential to guide children towards balanced usage.

– Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)
MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD
(Child Growth and Development)