Watching the news is what everyone spent in time listening to or reading. Since technology has become more advanced in the 21st century, before that we had radio, television, and newspapers as our only source of getting news. Then came the internet and with a smartphone every piece of news and events was just at a brink of a fingertip. Even we adults spent a huge amount of time on news that covers distinct topics such as tragic news, disasters, celebrities, politics, etc. Depending upon the type of news we feel connected to the stories that we come across and our filled with strong emotions of joy, sadness, excitement, or anger.
Similarly, as adults children are coming across news due to ease of accessibility to the information, They may hear the news directly through the Internet, listen to it while they playing in their room, and might hear the adults talking. They might always understand, but the mind always interprets information which can later cause confusion anxiety or worry. In this article, We aim to discuss the effect of excesses new on children and how to manage its exposure.
The Impact of News on Kids
News has the power to educate us. It enlightens and shapes our point of view and our mindset. We are constantly, showered with the variety of daily news on several events that are taking place every day. From tragic news, triggering death, disasters, etc we are in constant touch with world news 24/7. Children are still in their development stage does not understand the working of the world. News can be overwhelming for them, and the strong emotions that are associated with them can be difficult to handle. This can lead to a feeling of fear, anxiety, and distress in children.
1) Age-Appropriate News Content
The first thing to do in managing news coverage is to ensure that the content they’re watching age appropriate or not. It is easy to come across content of interest that is not appropriate for children. Young kids find it difficult to understand complex news hence there are chance of misunderstanding it. Several websites, apps, and channels are specially designed for kids and contain materials that are appropriate for kids’ levels of understanding and maturity only. Web browsers have specialized restrictions on showcasing incentive material for kids, once enabled one can’t hide those new for children
2) Be aware of the fake news!
They say rumors spread like wildfire! Similarly, misinformation and fake news are easy to spread with a fingertip. From one corner of the world to another country information can travel in an instant. One should rely only on trusted and authentic sources of news that presents factual info only.
3) Limiting Exposure to Distressing News
It has been reported according to a study that children who constantly watched the news related to a violent incident tend to develop trauma. It is good for the children to be aware of world events but they should not be presented with the news that might distress them. As adults sometimes sit s not easy to cope with tragic news. Children’s minds are prone to get affected by disturbing news that leads to emotional distress and anxiety. Parents should limit exposure to news related to disasters, accidents, violence, etc.
4) Encouraging Open Discussions
Instead of avoiding any discussion, parents should engage in mindful and friendly conversations with kids. In case children come across any news that is confusing to them parents should listen to their doubts and express their views to clarify them. This will not only helps kids process the difficult info but will create a sense of empathy and resonance thinking in them.
5) Balancing with Positive News
The world cannot be always full of bad instances. There are tragedies out there but positive stories also. Parents should consider bringing motivating and positive events from the news to the children. For example, the internet is filled with acts of heroism where rescuers save people in a disaster, or an NGO groups a bunch of stray dogs and cats.
Such news shows acts of bravery, selflessness, and kindness of humanity that children will learn by observing others.
6) Setting Time Limits
Excess of anything is harmful! It is ik to be informed but kids at such a young age do not need to be aware of world affairs every time. Unlimited access should limit to the children The amount of time spent on news must be limited by drawing them away from technology. Engaging in activities such as outdoor games, crafts, hobbies, and reading should be encouraged by more young children rather than watching the news on the tv or the internet.
7) Monitoring Social Media Use
Social media is the biggest reason and place where people are connected. Information travels in a blink constantly 24/7 and it is difficult to restrict every piece of info due to the amount of info that flows from here to there. It should not be permitted to introduce children to social media sites. If allowed, it should be constantly restricted because social media information may be extremely sensitive and inappropriate for kids.Â
8) Be mindful of your children
Adults who are constantly working can quickly become engrossed in worldly affairs and lose sense of time. Due to these children looks at other sources of activity such as the internet and tv that are easily available. It is not necessary at all for children to watch the news, instead, try spending more and more time with kids and try to limit yourself also from social media and tv news to care for your emotional well-being. Children look up to their parents as their role models.
The world is constantly changing and a lot of things happen here every second, it is okay to stay informed of the right balance if news exposure to children is the key to managing their mental well-being. Parents should rely on a genuine and trustworthy source of news, and they should have open dialogues with kids to dispel any worries or misunderstandings they may have.
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