As a parent, it can sometimes feel like a struggle to connect with our digital children in their gaming endeavors. However, rather than viewing gaming as a barrier, it can actually serve as a bridge to strengthen your relationship. One effective way to connect with your gaming child is by joining in their gaming activities. By taking an interest in what they enjoy, you not only show your support but also create an opportunity for quality time together. In this article, we will explore the benefits of engaging in gaming with your child and how it can foster a deeper connection between you.
In today’s digital age, screens have become an integral part of our lives. From smartphones to laptops, we rely on screens for work, education, entertainment, and socializing. However, as we spend more time in front of screens, concerns about the impact on our eyes have arisen. Myopia, or nearsightedness, has become increasingly prevalent, especially among children.
Understanding the effects of screen time on our eyes and debunking myths surrounding this topic is crucial for managing myopia effectively. In this article, we will delve into the impact of screen time on our eyes, explore strategies to mitigate the risks, and separate fact from fiction to provide a clearer understanding of managing myopia in the digital era.
As a part of Singapore Parenting Festivals 2023, panel in webinar “Growing Up with Technology: How Much is Too Much”, presents insights on how to strengthen relationship with children in their digital activities, while at the same time to managing their screen time.
The discussion featured Alsen Chanamuto, Schools Engagement Manager (Primary Schools) at Centre for Fathering and Optometrist Dr. Koh Liang Hwee.
Being Plugged In: Connecting with Your Digital Child
In today’s digital world, technology plays a significant role in our daily lives, and children are growing up immersed in it. As parents, we often worry about the impact of technology on our children. However, it’s essential to recognize that technology can also be a powerful tool for learning and development. In this article, we will explore why technology is beneficial for our children and how we can connect with them in the digital realm.
Understanding Your Digital Child
To effectively connect with our digital children, we must first understand their digital world. It’s common for parents from older generations to feel disconnected from gaming, social media, and other digital activities. However, when we dismiss or show disinterest in their digital experiences, we inadvertently communicate that we are not interested in them. As parents, we want to foster a connection with our children, and that means showing interest in the things they care about. It’s important to engage in conversations, avoid quick dismissals, and listen to their experiences with technology. By doing so, we demonstrate our genuine care and concern, which encourages open communication and a stronger bond.
Connecting with Your Gaming Child
If you have a gaming child, one effective way to connect with them is by joining in their gaming activities. You don’t necessarily have to be a skilled gamer; simply sitting with them and watching them play can make a difference. Observing their gameplay, understanding the mechanics, and asking questions about their strategies can show them that you value their interests. It’s also an opportunity to have conversations and build a deeper connection with your child. Additionally, this approach applies to younger kids who are starting to engage in gaming activities. Participating in simple games and activities together can create joyful moments and strengthen the parent-child bond.
Setting Boundaries and Role Modeling
As parents, it’s crucial to set boundaries for our children’s technology usage. To establish effective boundaries, we need to understand the games they play, how social media platforms work, and the impact of excessive screen time. By immersing ourselves in their digital experiences, we gain firsthand knowledge that enables us to set reasonable limits and guidelines. It’s important to have conversations about time limits, explain the reasons behind them, and emphasize the importance of balancing technology use with other activities. As role models, we need to demonstrate responsible technology use ourselves, which includes setting aside dedicated family time that doesn’t revolve around screens.
Screen Time Recommendations
The Health Promotion Board provides guidelines on screen time for different age groups. For children aged zero to 18 months, it is recommended to avoid screen time altogether due to its potential impact on brain development. From one and a half years old to six years old, the recommended screen time should be limited. It’s essential to be aware of these recommendations and find a balance that suits your child’s needs and overall well-being.
Conclusion
By understanding our digital children, actively engaging with their digital experiences, setting boundaries, and serving as positive role models, we can establish a strong connection with them in the digital world. Technology can be a powerful tool for learning and growth, and by embracing it alongside our children, we can navigate the digital landscape together and foster a deeper parent-child bond.
The Impact of Screen Time on Our Eyes: Understanding and Managing Myopia
As the next panelist, Dr. Koh discussed the effects of screen time on our eyes, particularly focusing on myopia. As a parent of five children himself, he understand the concerns we all have regarding our children’s eye health.
First, let’s understand how a normal eye functions. Light enters through the pupil, controlled by the iris, and is focused by the lens onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. However, prolonged near work, such as excessive screen time, can lead to two main issues: myopia and digital eye strain.
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, occurs when distant objects appear blurry, while near objects remain clear. The more myopic a person is, the closer objects need to be for clear vision. In Singapore, where myopia rates are high, it is crucial to address this issue.
There are several risk factors associated with myopia. Family history plays a role, as the Chinese race tends to be predisposed to myopia. Additionally, the earlier myopia develops, the greater the risk of progression. Spending less time outdoors and more time engaged in near work, such as reading or using digital devices, also increases the likelihood of myopia.
Recent studies during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown a significant increase in myopia incidence due to prolonged screen time and limited outdoor activities. This reinforces the importance of taking action to manage myopia in our children.
So, how can we address this issue? One of the simplest and most effective methods is to encourage our children to spend more time outdoors. Research has shown that spending at least two to three hours outdoors daily can significantly reduce the risk of myopia.
Another approach is optical intervention. Specially designed spectacle lenses can control myopia progression by manipulating the focal point of the image onto the retina. Similarly, soft contact lenses and orthokeratology lenses work by altering the focus on the central part of the retina, providing clear vision during the day.
Lastly, there are pharmaceutical options, such as atropine eye drops. Higher dosages have been shown to provide better control of myopia; however, they may come with side effects like glare and difficulty reading. Therefore, it is important to consider the individual needs and preferences of each child when selecting the appropriate method.
It is worth mentioning that pinhole glasses and consuming carrots have no significant impact on myopia control, despite common beliefs. Therefore, it is important to rely on evidence-based methods for managing myopia.
In conclusion, excessive screen time can contribute to myopia development and progression. By promoting outdoor activities, utilizing optical interventions, and considering pharmaceutical options, we can effectively manage myopia in our children. Remember, early intervention is key, and regular eye check-ups are essential for monitoring and adjusting the treatment plan.
Managing Myopia and Screen Time: Debunking Myths and Helpful Tips
In our quest to understand and manage myopia, there are several myths that need debunking. One common misconception is that childhood myopia worsens with increased wear of glasses. However, this is indeed a myth. Not wearing glasses when needed can actually make myopia worse. It is crucial to consult an optometrist to determine the appropriate prescription for your child.
Some parents may wonder why a prescription of -5 is given instead of -4.50. This misconception stems from the belief that under-correction can slow down myopia progression. However, under-correction is not an effective strategy and can potentially worsen myopia. It is essential to provide children with the full correction needed for clear vision.
Speaking of wearing glasses, some may wonder if wearing glasses can cure myopia. Unfortunately, glasses do not cure myopia. However, they play a vital role in correcting vision and managing myopia progression.
Now, let’s address the issue of eyestrain caused by excessive screen time. When we engage in near work activities like reading or using digital devices, our eyes must accommodate and converge. Prolonged periods of near work can strain the eye muscles, leading to discomfort, dryness, headaches, and even double vision. This is not limited to children; adults can also experience these symptoms.
To manage screen time effectively, it is recommended that children study or engage in near work for no more than two hours at a time without any screen time. This break is necessary to relieve the strain on the eyes. Additionally, if both parents have myopia or if the child is at risk of developing myopia, it is advisable to reduce screen time as much as possible.
When it comes to recreational screen time, opting for larger screens like a TV or gaming console can be preferable to smaller devices like smartphones. The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline to reduce eye strain during near work activities. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on an object at least 20 feet away. Resting your eyes and avoiding near vision tasks during breaks can provide relief.
Encouraging outdoor activities not only benefits eye health but also promotes family bonding and exposes children to natural sunlight, which helps regulate myopia progression. In the past, when our lives revolved around hunting and farming, myopia was less prevalent. The urban lifestyle and increased near work have contributed to the rise in myopia cases.
In conclusion, debunking myths surrounding myopia and understanding how screen time affects our eyes is essential for effective management. Wearing glasses as prescribed, taking breaks during near work, limiting screen time, and encouraging outdoor activities are all important strategies to protect our eyes and manage myopia. Remember, regular visits to an optometrist are crucial for accurate prescriptions and comprehensive eye checks.