There is no denying that we are saturated in technology, and our kids lives are inundated with gadgets, gizmos, and tech toys from every direction.  From video games, smartphones, computers, and iPads, there is little, if anything, in our lives that is achieved without it.  While this may send chills up the spine of the geekiest IT tech or developer, as a parent, I’m more than a little concerned, particularly when a study is released that indicates that children are better at navigating an iPhone than tying their shoes or riding a bike.  Will this next generation loose their ability to master life skills?  Well the ones that can’t be accomplished through some high tech gadget anyhow?

Several detrimental components are taking over the lives of too many children, such as the ‘I need it now’ syndrome that is widespread due to the instant gratification kids find with a savvy computer, tablet, or smartphone and a broadband connection.  Teachers have noticed a reduced ability to communicate outside of text messages, tweets, and facebook posts, with language skills diminishing.  Too many kids seem to innately pick up navigating difficult electronic devices while showing no interested learning to create things with their hands, build things from scratch, or enjoy the outdoors on a bicycle or in a tent on a camping trip.

Could it be that we’ve lost a generation to technology?  Not if I have anything to say about it.  As a parent, it is my responsibility to ensure that my children maintain a balance in their lives, and that they nurture the relationships in their lives with more than a digital conversation.  I have chosen to limit the time my children spend attached to electronics, gadgets, and video game consoles.  As daily life becomes more and more technologically oriented, it is up to parents to keep a healthy balance of environmental input in their children’s lives.  If not parents, who then?

The world is going to throw more and more technology at us, and parents are the only interference.  While technology certainly improves our lives, and has a valuable role to play, we must maintain a semblance of raw humanity to keep life balanced lest we become so dependent on technology that it effectively takes over and has the power to determine the scope of our happiness.

Source:  ArsTechnica.com