More and more parents are using computers - tablets and smartphones, instead of television as they once did, in order to keep their young children busy. But a new US scientific study raises serious doubts as to whether this, in addition to being convenient for parents, is actually good for children, as it can "slow down" the social and emotional development of their brain.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine, led by pediatrician Jenny Radeski, published in the American Academy of Pediatrics's "Pediatrics" magazine, according to the British "Guardian", evaluated the possible the frequent use of computers and mobile phones by children.
Researchers warn that although a parent can distract the child in this way, the child can be absorbed with his new "play" and be quiet, but the price may be the child's poor development, especially refers to his ability to self-test and communicate with others.
Scientists point out that while the impact of television and video games on young children in pre-school age has been extensively studied, it is not the same as tablets and smartphones.
"If these devices become the predominant method to calm and employ children, will they be able to develop their own internal self-regulation mechanisms?" The researchers ask. Among other things, they point out that there are indications that children under the age of three spend a lot of time in front of an interactive touchscreen, they have difficulty developing the necessary skills for mathematics and the sciences in general.
Jani Radetsky recommends parents to encourage their children in a timely manner "direct interactive contact with humans". As he said, it is vital for the whole family to dedicate daily time to contact and communicate, leaving aside television, computers and mobiles.
Studies already show that children learn more things and develop more naturally in this case than through screens, as they develop, among other things, empathy (the ability to feel around them and get in place), and to solve problems in a team way.
In addition, according to researchers, playing a toddler's toddler can ultimately help her develop mathematical skills rather than being "nailed" to a screen, even interactive. Interactive programs (such as electronic children's books) provided by tablets and smart mobiles are becoming more useful from an educational point of view as a child approaches school age, but not until two to three years.
The main conclusion of the researchers is that the impact of electronic devices on the growth and behavior of young children remains a big question mark for the time being, so parents need to be very skeptical and not give it easy - because it suits them - a tablet or a mobile phone to their child to spend their time.
Source: ΑΠΕ / ΜΠΕ