In recent years, the internet has become an integral part of daily life for many families. While it offers numerous educational opportunities and easy access to information, there is a growing concern about its impact on children's play and overall fun. In this blog, experts from Star Schooling Consultancy share concerns regarding the excessive usage of internet.

Over-Stimulation and Reduced Imagination

One of the primary concerns is that constant exposure to digital content can lead to overstimulation. Many online games, videos, and apps are designed with vibrant colours, fast-paced actions, and instant gratifications. Teachers from the Best Boarding Schools in North India have observed that this high level of stimulation can hinder children's ability to engage in imaginative play. Traditional forms of play, such as building blocks or pretend scenarios, require creativity and thought processes that are often underused when children spend excessive time online

Physical Activity Decline

Physical activity is crucial for a child's development. However, with more time spent on screens, there has been a noticeable decline in outdoor activities such as playing sports or simply running around in open spaces. Physical exercise not only fosters physical health but also supports mental well-being by helping children manage stress and develop social skills through interaction with peers.

Social Interaction Deficit

Children naturally learn social cues through face-to-face interactions with their peers during unstructured playtime. Online interactions lack many non-verbal cues necessary for developing these vital social skills. Additionally, heavy reliance on virtual communication may reduce children's ability to handle real-world social situations effectively.

Sleep Disruption

Another significant issue caused by excessive internet use is sleep disruption. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with melatonin production—a hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles—leading to difficulty falling asleep or poor-quality rest. Inadequate sleep affects mood, cognitive function, and overall health.

Addiction Risks

The potential for addiction also cannot be ignored when using the internet excessively. Many online platforms utilize algorithms designed to keep users engaged longer than intended through reward systems or endless scrolling features. This can be especially harmful to impressionable young minds who are still developing self-control mechanisms.

Parental Control Challenges

While parental controls are available on most devices today, allowing parents to monitor what their child accesses online, maintaining these controls requires consistent effort. Technology evolves rapidly, and children often find new ways to bypass restrictions. This creates ongoing challenges in ensuring safe and appropriate usage levels while balancing personal freedom with the benefits of online exploration.

To mitigate these risks while benefiting from the positive aspects the internet offers, it is key to find balance. Several of the best boarding schools in Delhi NCR are teaching students about finding the right balance between internet usage and offline activities. Incorporating a routine that includes screen time limits alongside encouraging offline engagements—such as hobbies, sports, and family outings—can foster a holistic and well-rounded upbringing. This approach promotes a healthy relationship with technology and ensures that children retain the core essence and joy of traditional childhood experiences amid the digital age.”

Published on: Jan 26, 2025