The soon to be physically dysfunctional society

 

The soon to be physically dysfunctional society

Some time back I commented on the need for proper, well- structured education to begin in the Pre-School arena.

Allow me to expand on this.

I am seeing more and more little ones unable to cross their midline. More and more unable to do things which need fine motor skills. More and more already in the early years of their little lives with eye problems.

And the reason for the above?

Children being supplied with tablets/computers and phones almost before they can walk. Parents who are so focused on themselves (why have children I ask myself?) that it is easier to get the kids out of their hair by letting them immerse themselves in the digital world.

So let me provide a few early parenting rules: (if you are considering having a child then READ- If you already have a little one, then READ:

FROM BIRTH

1.       Talk to your child- Sing together/read with her /him. The earlier the better.

2.       Introduce good music to your child (No NOT rap etc.- That’s NOT music)

3.       Play with your child ( yes- you are not too tired after a day at work- if you are, see a doctor!) By the way… the onus to do these things does not rest with one of the parents- Both are responsible.

4.       Playing includes: (as the child grows older so these skills will develop- they will not though develop if the child has been deposited in front of a tablet/computer/phone.

a)        Sitting and cutting out pictures with your child (no not looking at video’s/television).

b)      Using playdough to make sculptures. (No you do not have to buy playdough- make your own using flour- google will help you and your child will love making the dough as well.

c)       Pasting pictures to form artwork.

d)      Drawing on paper (not on the walls!)

e)      String beads

f)        Eating with a spoon (use different sizes) Yes messing is part of the growing up process!

g)       Get dad to cut different blocks of wood so that different structures can be created.

h)      Paint pictures with fingers/paintbrushes (when a little older)

i)        Pick up sticks

j)        Play outside in the rain/mud/water- Allow their immune systems to become strong!

k)       It is not just a teacher in a classroom who needs to tell your child to sit up straight- you do too!

The above begins as early as possible.   I have listed but a few activities that will allow children to avoid sensory deprivation and to be able to be properly physically active.

So when do I advise you to provide your child with access to the digital world?  
If you are doing all of the above with your child then a tablet/computer can easily form part of the process, but NOT (personal view) before the age of 2 or 3. Under strict control and not being allowed to sit for hours playing games. You brought her/him into this world, now raise her/him. Do not abrogate your responsibilities and devolve this onto a remote world. Let them explore the digital world with you in control.

A child does not need a cellphone with internet access until they are in High School!