Before the pandemic happened, the world was already in the digital age. Parents constantly faced the challenge of managing their kids’ gadget time, intentionally making an effort for children to enjoy screen-free play and activities. Having access to countless activities and the outdoors, meaningful moments meant family bonding time and fun just like the good old days.
Now that we’re mostly at home and with another round of ECQ coming, us moms have had no choice but to strike a delicate balance with technology. From closely monitoring the time spent on videos and online games, we have now made peace with gadgets for our kids’ play time and education.
Technology has kept us connected despite mandated distancing and has become a way for every member of the family to reach out to friends and loved ones, as well as enjoy moments of exploration and entertainment.
The Digital Life
Mommy Mundo’s Into the Mom Mind Survey takes a peek on mom’s view on tech. And it turns out that moms are more tech savvy than ever! Moms spend anywhere from 2-7 hours a day on the average on their laptop or phones. And 77% of respondents say that digital entertainment (whether games or movie night) has become part of their family bonding.
When it comes to kids, our mom respondents shared that 2-4 hours per day is the average time their children spend on their gadget and that there is more wiggle room for screen time on the weekends. Apart from schooling, kids have come to use mobile applications for videos and games.
Whereas 89% if moms admitted to control screen time, and 79% controlling content, it seems most moms have made peace with the use of tech, being an avid user of it as well.
A Whole New World
It seems that children are finding themselves in a whole new world. From school to play, everything is virtual. Even extracurricular activities are done online!
Tech is no longer the enemy. Rather, we must admit that it has come become a teacher, an entertainer, and a helper in reducing the burden on parents. It’s shaping our kids in so many ways, and is even leaving its influence on parents as we navigate life during the pandemic.
Online and Offline Connections
With everything online, most moms worry what will become of our kids. Are they learning? Will they just get addicted to gadgets? You are not alone in asking these questions! These are all part of wanting the best for our kids.
In this digital era, we have to accept that technology is now an important part of our lives. It has become our duty stay mindful and vigilant about setting up boundaries online and reinforcing social interactions offline.
Make Meaningful Connections
This August, Mommy Mundo puts the spotlight on making meaningful connections both online and offline. Here are a few thoughts to put into action:
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Connect without internet connection
Children of different ages will have different ideas of fun and play. Know what they want and spend a few hours a week engaging them in activities they like to do. It could be joke time, board games, or sports – let’s remember that no mobile app will beat smiles, laughter, and lots of hugs.
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Use technology to our advantage
Kids are feeling the negative impact of the pandemic. Imagine not being able to go outside, to meet friends, or simply hang out. Make sure that apart from your household, kids feel the love of relatives and close friends by maintaining relationships through technology. Be intentional in setting up Zoom calls with family and keep everyone together, even though we’re all apart.
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Look out for empty spaces
Appreciate and value times during the day when you don’t need to fill it with technology. Make time for empty spaces – those moments where you don’t need to scroll. Moms need gadget breaks too! Not only will it help us become more focused and relaxed, we have an opportunity to show our kids that being gadget-free can be a good thing.
If you are looking to #MindYourMind and make meaningful connections this August, access our downloadable worksheet to help you make the most of time—online and offline.
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