5 modern challenges kids are facing
In many ways, kids today have it all. Entertainment at their fingertips, social interaction in seconds, easy access to a global playground with peers as they learn and grow… the digital age offers an endless array of benefits to today’s kids.
At the same time however, the challenges they face are unique side effects courtesy of these same sources. Let’s look at five common issues that currently affect children.
Cyberbullying
Kids can make friends easily these days – but the same goes for enemies. With modern technology, it’s easier than ever for your child to be bullied through social media. Spreading gossip, making mean comments, stalking and harassing, creating and passing on rumours and belittling others are all hallmarks of cyberbullying. If your child is on sites like Instagram and Facebook, make sure you have an overview of who they are interacting with and the type of content to which they are exposed. It’s also a good idea to limit your child’s online time. Always report cases of harassment to the social media platform.
Stress and anxiety
Of course, kids of yore (let’s say pre-Internet kids), experienced stress, depression, worry and fears. Again though, thanks to the always-on circumstances in which we live, children are exposed to depressing and scary news every day. It’s hard to shield them from the grimness of wars, crime, violence and natural disasters when news isn’t just restricted to television these days. With this constant daily barrage, there are more reported cases of childhood mental health issues now. While you can’t hide your child away from the world, you can and should take steps to address their fears. If you notice worrying signs of anxiety and stress, reach out to a child therapist.
Health problems
Besides mental health stresses, children are also experiencing worrying physical health issues. All this time spent indoors focused on a screen can up a child’s risk for binge-eating (leading to obesity), eye problems, stagnated brain development, eating disorders based on exposure to unrealistic social images and plenty more. How often does your child run around and play outside? Is exercise and movement a frequent part of their routine? If not, it’s vital to start motivating kids to put down the gadgets and get outdoors.
Too much information
Information overload is a natural by-product of the 24/7 news cycle. And unless you’re watching your child with a beady eye every minute of every day, there’s plenty of age-inappropriateness that slips through the cracks. This excessive information also clouds your child’s cognitive abilities, when there’s so much from which to choose – how does one make the right decision? How do you ensure your child knows fact from opinion? Understand the intricacies of fake news and clickbait. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to take the time to educate your child on these issues.
Gender and sex confusion
This is a highly sensitive one and involves your family’s personal view around religion, sex and gender. What you believe and how you see your child versus what he or she feels internally, might be two very different ideals. Somehow, both parents and children have to find the middle ground while being respectful and tolerant of each other.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.