By Collin Babirukamu, Director E-Government Services National Information Technology Authority Uganda
Realities of the Digital Age present both opportunities and risks for both parents and children. The pandemic has accelerated digital adoption to a factor of 3-4 years. Digital disruption has been experienced in nearly every industry or area of our lives (Health, Education, Banking, Church, Work space….)
8 of the top 10 richest people in the world are Techprenuers and so a child armed with a laptop and the Internet could ‘change’ the world. Technology has created a connected world (Social Media, Zoom etc.); an App for ‘everything’
So the Question is not what is the new normal, but the next normal….
Digital opportunities for Children
The Internet presents a lot of opportunities for children; it’s a learning tool – especially in the pandemic; Digital knowledge increases employability and creativity for self-employment and wealth creation; Children who struggle to develop friendships offline can sometimes thrive socially or find support online; Children with disabilities often feel isolated and stigmatized; the online community offers a sense of belonging, independence and freedom; Technology can potentially increase student motivation by making learning more fun and relatable, Some video games now have a positive influence on cognitive, motivational, emotional and social development. Best if they are group games.
Risks our children face
The Internet presents several risks to our children, among which are Unreliable sources and inappropriate content (Breeds addiction, terror), Intensifying traditional childhood risks: bullying, sexual child abuse and exploitation, Lack of privacy; Online platforms can be a source of pressure for some as teens feel the need to post ‘attractive’ content that would be ‘liked’ by others; No safe haven exists for children in a digital world, cyberbullying can continue once content is posted, deleting it is often impossible; Over exposure to screens and gadgets can cause cognitive delays, impaired learning, increased impulsivity, tantrums, obesity; Sleep deprivation, addictions, aggression and anxiety; Over exposure can also cause digital dementia – high speed content can cause attention deficit, decreased concentration and memory, plus Children who can’t pay attention, can’t learn.
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Parents need to be good role models; hands-free parenting, Provide healthy alternatives to gadgets. Sports, reading, your presence, Encourage family and social time that is gadget free, Teach the value of face to face communication, Apply authoritative parenting, the most effective parenting style to your kids’ tech use. Authoritative parents are loving and highly engaged in children’s lives. Gentle but firm, Need to allow open communication about digital media boundaries, Rules must apply – No devices in the rooms but shared family spaces, Interaction not isolation – Screen time is not alone time, 14 -16 years is a recommended age to allow them have a smart phone.
Steve Jobs (CEO and Founder of Apple Inc) was asked if his kids loved the ipad, Steve responded:
“They. haven’t used it…” “We limit how much technology our kids use it. Steve Jobs used to engage his kids in discussions around books and history
We need to go back to the basics and be present parents
Mr Babirukamu was presenting during the 26th ICPAU annual seminar
