First and foremost, it must be acknowledged that smartphones represent a technological advancement that has revolutionized the world. From its origins as a device primarily for text and voice communication, it has evolved significantly. However, in some countries, smartphones have led to various problems. While this device can be immensely beneficial, I will address a significant issue associated with its usage in this article.
About 20 years ago, a child in Sri Lanka wouldn't have encountered a smartphone or even a handheld phone. This was predominantly the case in Asian countries. If you were born in the 1980s or 1990s, you'd be familiar with the technological landscape of Sri Lanka during that era, which was mostly low-tech. Smartphones, gaming gadgets, and laptops were primarily accessible to big businesspeople. Despite this, we still cherished our childhood. However, the situation has now drastically changed, with even three- or four-year-olds having access to smartphones.
I believe a child's mind should develop alongside both parental guidance and exposure to nature. Unfortunately, after school, only a few people set aside their mobile phones and engage in physical activities or play with their children. Some children develop a dependency on smartphones, particularly for gaming, leading parents to neglect their responsibilities. This early exposure to technology can adversely affect a child's development. However, I acknowledge that not everyone falls into this category. Therefore, it's essential to exercise caution when considering giving smartphones to children.
Saving a child who is addicted to smartphones isn't as simple as it may seem. It requires gradual steps and cannot be achieved overnight. It's essential to gradually limit the child's exposure to smartphones. Recently, there have been reports of suicides related to excessive smartphone usage in Sri Lanka. My suggestion is to encourage children to engage in physical activities, play freely, and enjoy nature instead of constantly using smartphones indoors. Not only does this promote the overall health of the family, but it also helps prevent many diseases. As parents, it's crucial to use smartphones for educational purposes and to set limits on their usage. This is the message I wanted to convey in this article. Thank you, everyone, for reading.