Setting Limits on Smartphone Use to Help Children Thrive in a Digital World

Ralph Estep Jr.:
00:00

Today's Technology Tuesday, and I've got a question for you. Do you remember your childhood? You know, playing outside till the streetlights came on, listening for mom or dad to call your name, building forts, and having actual face-to-face conversations. When I think about kids today, I wonder how much of their world revolves around a tiny screen. It's a question that weighs heavily on many parents' minds, and frankly, it should. And that's exactly what we're going to cover today on the show.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
00:31

I'm so glad you decided to spend a few minutes with us today. Yesterday, we dug into the often-confusing world of debt management versus bankruptcy. It was a tough topic, and one that many find themselves facing. If you missed it, no worries—just head over to AskRalphPodcast.com where you can catch up at your own pace.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
00:49

Now, before we dive into today's crucial conversation about smartphones and our children, let me give you a sneak peek of what's coming up tomorrow on the show. Tomorrow, we're stepping into the future, folks, with a look at how artificial intelligence, or AI, is influencing lending decisions. It's a game changer, and I'm breaking it all down for you. So be sure to tune in.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
01:13

Now, let's get back to today's topic. We're talking about our kids and those ever-present smartphones. Let's ground ourselves first in some scripture. This comes to us from the book of Proverbs, Chapter 22, verse 6, and it reminds us: "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it." Those are some powerful words, aren't they? And they apply directly to how we guide our children in navigating this digital world.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
01:41

It's no secret that smartphones have become as commonplace as a pair of shoes these days. But are they really hurting our kids? And if they are, why? In my personal opinion, the short answer is yes, they can be. And the reasons are many.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
02:01

First, let's talk about attention spans. Remember when you could sit through a whole movie without checking your phone? Our kids are growing up in a world of instant gratification and constant stimulation. I know my youngest has his phone going, his Switch, and he's watching YouTube all at once. This can make it difficult for them to focus on tasks that require sustained attention, like reading, studying, or even just having a conversation. I don't know about you, but more and more, I find it hard to have conversations with young people.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
02:37

Second, there's the issue of sleep. The blue light emitted from smartphones can interfere with melatonin production. That's a hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. This can lead to sleep deprivation, which can negatively impact everything from mood to academic performance to physical health.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
02:57

And then there's the big one: addiction. Smartphones are designed to be addictive, and trust me, I know it. I'm addicted to mine. Every notification, every like, and every comment triggers a release of dopamine in the brain. That's the feel-good chemical that keeps us coming back for more. This can lead to excessive smartphone use, which can have a serious impact on a child's social, emotional, and academic well-being.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
03:26

So what can we do about it? Well, the good news is this: there are alternatives. And no, I'm not talking about going completely off the grid. Now, of course, that's an option if you want to. But in my personal humble view, it's about finding a healthy balance. So here are a few practical steps you can take. And trust me, this is not going to be easy because that addiction is strong.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
03:47

The first one is this: set limits. Establish clear rules about smartphone use. This might include setting time limits, designating device-free zones in the house like the dinner table, or even having specific days or times when the smartphones are off limits.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
04:05

Number two, encourage other activities. Make sure your kids are engaged in activities that don't involve screens, like playing outside, maybe reading a book that's not on an electronic device, spending time with their friends and family, and pursuing hobbies that don't involve playing video games or screen time.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
04:27

Number three, and this one is going to cut you close: you’ve got to be a role model. I found that I wasn't a great one when it came to smart devices. The truth is, folks, kids learn by example. If you're constantly glued to your own smartphone, they'll be more likely to do the same. They're going to model the same behavior you're doing. So you've got to make a conscious effort to put your phone away and be present with your kids.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
04:55

And number four, talk about it. It's time to have an open and honest conversation with your kids about the potential dangers of excessive smartphone use. Help them understand the importance of balance and moderation.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
05:10

Now, I didn't say any of these things are going to be easy because the peer pressure out there is insane. Everybody's got smartphones, and your kids are being bombarded from all sides with this. Remember, our goal as parents is to raise well-rounded, responsible, and tech-savvy kids who can navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. It's not about eliminating technology altogether but about using it in a way that enhances, not hinders, their lives.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
05:39

So let's recap. Smartphones can be detrimental to our children's development. They affect their attention spans, their sleeping patterns, and even lead to a strong and sometimes unbreakable addiction.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
05:53

But there is hope. Like we talked about: setting limits, encouraging other activities that don't involve those small screens, being a good role model yourself (now that's going to take some work on your part), and having open conversations. By doing these things, we can help our kids develop a healthy relationship with technology. Remember those carefree days of childhood? Let's give our kids the gift of experiencing that same joy and freedom, even in our tech-driven world.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
06:21

Well, that's it for today's episode. I hope this has given you some food for thought and some practical steps you can take to help your kids thrive in this digital age.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
06:29

Don't forget to visit our website at AskRalphPodcast.com for more resources and information on this topic and other important financial topics. While you're there, do me a favor and sign up for our email list so you never miss an episode. And if you found this episode helpful, do me another favor and share it with your friends, family, and social networks. You never know who might be struggling with the same issues, and my bet is a lot of people are.

Ralph Estep Jr.:
06:55

Well, until next time, stay financially savvy, my friends, and may God bless you. Spend some time away from that small screen.