The end of the school break is coming, and with it, the opportunity to reflect on how we have invested our free time, especially in the use of screens. Preparing for the school cycle implies adopting a perspective that balances technology with enriching activities. Instead of abrupt disconnection, the proposal is to generate a gradual transition, transforming leisure time into a period of “digital vacations.”
We live in Synthetic timeswhere the virtual surrounds us and coexists by the same as real (even impacting and changing their rules of the game). Therefore, it is crucial to talk and problematize how we interact with the screens. The challenge is not to eliminate technology, but to rethink its use, especially in minors, who are more exposed to their negative impact. It is time to build strategies for disconnection sustainable and beneficialconsidering that every device is designed to generate incentives for the time invested.
The key is to replace instant gratification of the screen with other forms of linking. We can inspire ourselves in nature, where curiosity and exploration arise naturally. For example, in a place, childhoods discover textures, colors, shapes, and recognition can be generated, a kind of “sensory treasure lot”, which competes with the flat of the screen experience.
In any age, sensory exploration in nature is essential: walking barefoot on grass, touching flowers, playing with water stimulates intelligence and development. Also cooking as a family encourages curiosity, autonomy and learning of concepts of physics and chemistry. For adolescents, physical activities, board games, and even volunteering, favor growth and identity. Skills such as coexistence and negotiation are the order of the day in all games and group experiences.
Families can propose time without home screens. Establish Technology free zonesincorporate digital breaks such as method 20-20-20, or even propose Sundays without devices, and add competitions or competencies are some possible practices. The prohibition is not the solution, but the conscious regulation, which accompanies the key concept of self -regulation.
The adults of the family play a fundamental role as models to follow. The little ones learn by observation, imitating the behaviors of their reference figures. If adults reduce the unnecessary use of technology, we inspire children to do the same. Silence notifications, use applications that regulate the use of screens, and prioritize quality activities with children are concrete actions.
It is vital to understand that we compete with screens designed to capture attention. When we use cell phones while sharing a meal, we reinforce a habit that generates anxiety and lose the opportunity to talk as a family. Disconnection is not only an individual act, but a family commitment.
Also, you can use the screens themselves to understand their risks. Investigating the impact on addictive habits of applications such as Tiktok reading their terms and conditions, or seeing documentaries on the use of screens and then generating family debates is a way of addressing these issues with confidence. The screens can be a tool to generate curiosity or look for data that promotes self -care and critical use.
There is varied evidence, although little disseminated through awareness campaigns or what is called sanitary labeling, on excessive use of screens and its negative effect that promotes a new type of problematic consumption. In addition, it can cause mental health symptoms, shortening of the capacity for care and weakening of memory. On the other hand, constant comparison with influencers on social networks can generate low self -esteem and body dysmorphia. It is essential to recognize that all this impact is reflected in the star concept of 2024 (defined by the Oxford Dictionary) “Brain Rot” (brain rot), which reflects the negative effect of low quality online content, especially on social networks.
The return to classes not only implies buying school supplies, but also preparing our mind and habits for a renewed cycle. By promoting digital disconnection and promoting enriching activities, we provide children and young tools for healthy growth and better school performance. It is possible to teach to rediscover the real world, enhancing imagination and learning from direct experience. The key is in balance, self -regulation and family commitment.
Entrepreneur and specialist in educational technology, author of the book Educate in synthetic times (Galerna, 2024).
Source: Ambito
