19/02/2025
This is the first time the survey that maps schooling and learning in rural India has included digital literacy as one of the key parameters in its investigation.
The report says 82.2 per cent of all children in the 14-16 age group know how to use a smartphone. Of these, 57 per cent reported using it for an educational activity in the week preceding the survey, while 76 per cent said that they had used it for social media.
Empowering Parents: Solutions and Strategies
The responsibility of fostering healthy phone habits in children lies primarily with parents and caregivers. Here are some practical strategies parents can implement:
Set Clear Limits: Establish clear rules and time limits for smartphone use. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screen time limits based on age, with no screen time for children under 18 months and a maximum of one hour per day for children ages 2-5.
Lead by Example: If parents themselves are constantly glued to their phones, it sends a mixed message to children. Practice what you preach and limit your own screen time, especially during family meals and quality time with children.
Create Screen-Free Zones: Designate specific areas in the house, like bedrooms or dinner tables, as "phone-free zones" to encourage face-to-face interaction and family time.
Provide Alternatives: Offer engaging activities that don't involve screens, like playing board games, reading together, spending time outdoors, or pursuing hobbies.
Open Communication: Maintain open communication with your children about their online activities. Talk to them about the dangers of cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Encourage them to come to you with any concerns or issues they encounter online.
Parental Controls: Utilize parental control features on smartphones to restrict access to inappropriate content and control screen time.
