Over the years, texting among children has increased dramatically. It has also become such an important part of children's social lives that parents are starting to feel concerned.
Texting is really common among children these days, in which they have their mobile phone with them all the time. There is no doubt that texting could be beneficial as well, because when a child is texting someone that means they are communicating and it provides them a feeling of belonging, according to the Center of Parenting Education.
When a child is shy but they are able to text, then it helps them to become more outgoing and helps them communicate more with people. As a result they tend to become more friendly.
Texting, however, could also bring some negative effects. That's why, parents should remember that everything is fine under certain limits. This applies the same way with tech use and screen time. When a child overuses their phone, it negatively affects them by cutting them off from the real world. So, striking a balance is the key.
Parents should set time duration and limitation on their child's technology use, they should set a time for their children to use it and then ask them to stop using once their time is done. According to Children's Hospital Los Angeles, if a parent does not keep limitations on cell phones, a child's sleeping habit could also be affected.
When a child is allowed to text or use phone all day long, then they do not get involved in family matters, giving less time to their family and spend more with their mobile phone screens. With that said, parents should carefully think when is the right time or age to provide mobile phones to their child.
Meanwhile, there is some contradicting ideas as to when a child should be provided witha smartphone. If children are provided gadgets at an early age, there will reportedly be a lesser possibility of misuse or overuse later on. But if they are kept from having a phone, they'll easily start comparing themselves with friends who already possess it, making them feel insecure and left behind.
So, at what age do you think a child should own a smartphone? Share your thoughts below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.
