How to Minimize the Effects of Technology Causing Childhood Obesity

Here’s a scary thought. Our three-year-old granddaughter has discovered how to use her mother’s smartphone. She is quite adept at the computer, at least when she recognizes icons. That is too young for me, although it was not taught intentionally. Children are much smarter and much younger than we think. This means that we have to plan ahead for the limits of technology.

Deciding the appropriate age: Despite obvious talent and desire, Tres is too young to play on a computer or smartphone. You can watch the shows we choose on them, but three of you are too young to have your own.

Every child will be different, so giving a solid age would be a disadvantage for some children. Parents know and understand their own offspring and can set that limit as they see fit.

Decide on the appropriate use: At three, sitting on one of our laps while using the computer is appropriate for our grandson when it comes to phones and computers. When you enter the school, you may need to wear something with internet access. That does not mean that the child is in widespread use. You decide if it is appropriate to text or email your friends at school.

Set limits: It’s easy to get sucked into a game, a conversation or an investigation and spend five hours in what seems like five minutes. This is just as bad for our children as it is for us. Let them know how long they have to use any device used, give a five minute warning, and then turn it off.

Follow them: This is the most important part of setting limits. We have to follow our own advice. Our children will see what we do and follow our example. When our time is up, we should turn it off or save it too.