The world is changing rapidly. Once a concept of science fiction, Artificial Intelligence has transitioned from the realm of utopia to everyday reality. Virtual assistants answer questions, AI-driven programs personalize learning, and algorithms suggest what to watch. For today’s children, AI is not just a tool; it influences how they learn and interact. While advancing technologies, such as AI, hold great promise, they also present with significant challenges. Children are becoming increasingly reliant on these technologies often, at the expense of their cognitive abilities.

Critical and imaginative thinking is the need of the hour for today’s children. The current reliance on short texts, text speak, or SMS language does not encourage kids to use their inherent cognitive abilities. Our goal is not to compete with AI in terms of processing speed, but to equip our children with invaluable skills such as critical thinking, creativity, empathy, and ethical reasoning. As technology evolves, we must ensure that the next generation understands that true strength lies not in machines, but in the power of their own minds.

The transformation

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way children today acquire knowledge. With an increasing focus on instant gratification—whether in learning, social interactions, or even relationships—there is a notable downside to this fast-paced lifestyle: a lack of time to think, explore, or imagine. The reliance on gadgets is so pervasive that we must question whether our children will continue to develop independent thinking skills without the aid of machines.

There is ongoing discussion about AI across various platforms, including schools, friend groups, conferences, and homes. It’s not about children going head-to-head with AI on data processing; instead, it’s about maintaining their fundamental human skills. If children start depending on AI for writing sentences, performing calculations, and producing artwork, will they still engage in independent thinking and creativity?

Are we adequately exercising our brains?

As children, we were taught to question the world around us, and the word “why” was deeply ingrained in our minds. However. with the rise of Artificial Intelligence, the importance of “why” seems to be diminishing as we increasingly rely on pre-formatted answers. As a means of preparing our children for the future, we must focus on building fundamental human qualities. Children today must be taught to value the importance of argument, critical thinking, discovery, and viewing life beyond the screens. Creativity is born out of the human mind’s yearning for innovation, which cannot be fulfilled by solutions provided by artificial intelligence. We can empathize and be emotionally intelligent which distinguishes us from machines, the pillars of human behaviour.

Technology is not inherently harmful, but it is generally over-analysed. We must teach our kids the ethical implications of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and chatbots. While it’s important to embrace the benefits of AI, future leaders must grasp the true meaning of power and accountability. This responsibility does not lie with AI; technology can never be in charge. Instead, it is up to us humans to use technology responsibly and wisely to create a better world.

The right balance

We need to ask ourselves if our children are curious enough to understand what is happening around them. Do parents and teachers enhance children’s awareness by encouraging critical thinking, or are we becoming overly reliant on technology? While it is essential to engage and empower our kids with new developments like coding, robotics, and AI, these subjects should be tools for learning and understanding, rather than dominating their lives. Today, many parents rely on parental control apps with location tracking features, not only to monitor their children’s movements but also to help reduce screen time and social media addictions. It’s important to strike a balance for children, combining outdoor activities that enhance imagination, storytelling, and problem-solving with indoor activities that foster genuine friendships and socialization.

The future

Children should encounter challenges and learn to solve them independently instead of seeking instant answers from AI solutions. As AI becomes a permanent fixture in our lives, the key challenge for our children is to develop resilience, intelligence, and ethics to collaborate effectively with technology. We must ensure that our human judgment, not AI, guides our actions. By focusing on our unique strengths, we can prepare the next generation for a world shaped by AI and encourage them to design it.

Once upon a time, our childhood was characterized by scraped knees, engaging games of hide-and-seek, and the comforting tradition of bedtime stories. In contrast, contemporary childhood is defined by swipes, likes, and continuous scrolling. Welcome to the phenomenon known as ‘The Lone Generation’—children who are growing up in a digital landscape where screens serve as their primary playground and the internet is simultaneously their most reliable companion and significant adversary.

While technology has facilitated unprecedented opportunities for learning and connectivity, it has also presented a range of complexities and challenges. The critical inquiry remains: how can we protect the digital innocence of children while simultaneously allowing them to fully embrace the potential of the digital realm?

The Digital Tightrope: Balancing the Positive and the Negative

Curiosity, often regarded as the essence of childhood, incurs significant risks in the digital age. A straightforward online search can expose young minds to inappropriate content, misinformation, and unsettling realities that exceed their developmental comprehension. What once constituted a gradual exploration of knowledge has been transformed into a torrent of unfiltered stimuli.

Within the illuminated confines of screens, various dangers are present. Cyberbullying, online predation, and data breaches are not mere headlines; they represent real and pressing threats. Although the internet offers remarkable learning opportunities, it can also be harsh and unforgiving. Screens have been designed to attract and captivate users, often targeting children who possess an innate curiosity. Prolonged exposure to digital devices can adversely affect children’s mental health, disrupt their sleep cycles, and hinder their ability to engage in face-to-face communication.

The Guardians of Digital Innocence

While it may be appealing to provide a child with a tablet to achieve a moment of peace, effective digital parenting necessitates active involvement and engagement. Parents have the authority to cultivate responsible digital habits through strategies such as establishing screen time restrictions, utilizing parental controls, and, importantly, modeling appropriate behavior. Additionally, educational institutions must adapt to this new reality by embedding digital literacy within their curricula, equipping students with essential skills to safely navigate the online world. Promoting outdoor activities, nurturing creativity, and fostering critical thinking are vital components of this educational approach. Fortunately, there is now a variety of secure applications available that can mitigate access to harmful content and create healthy social boundaries for children.

Raising Digital Warriors, Not Just Users

In the present context, it is essential to educate children on the importance of pausing, analysing, and questioning the credibility of online information; this is a crucial skill. Critical thinking acts as an essential defence mechanism in an environment rife with misinformation. Parents should endeavour to transcend superficial inquiries, such as “How was your day?” and instead engage in more profound discussions about their children’s online experiences, the content they consume, and the individuals with whom they interact. This ongoing dialogue fosters a climate of trust and offers valuable guidance.

It is imperative to understand that technology is not the adversary; rather, it is the unregulated and unmonitored use of technology that presents significant risks. By encouraging children to seek enjoyment beyond screens—through literature, outdoor exploration, musical pursuits, and meaningful interpersonal connections—we can promote a holistic and balanced lifestyle.

The Road Ahead

There is no possibility of reversing the advancements of the digital age; it is an integral aspect of our society. However, this reality does not imply that we must allow it to dictate the contours of childhood without appropriate safeguards. The Lone Generation need not navigate this journey in isolation. Through collaborative efforts involving parents, educators, and community members, we can cultivate an environment where children can leverage the advantages of technology while concurrently preserving their innocence.

The future is not solely digital; it is inherently human. It is crucial that we work collectively to ensure that our children thrive in both spheres.

Social media has become integral to our daily lives, shaping how we communicate, consume information, and perceive the world. While it offers many benefits— connecting people across distances, providing entertainment, and even fostering social movements—it has significant downsides, particularly concerning mental health. This blog explores the darker side of social media, focusing on its effects on anxiety, self-esteem, addiction, relationships, and overall well-being, while also offering potential solutions to mitigate these issues.

The Psychological Effects

Numerous studies have established a link between excessive social media use and increased anxiety and depression. The constant barrage of information and the pressure to maintain an online persona can create immense psychological stress. Social media platforms, which were once intended for light entertainment, are now sources of various mental health issues. The biggest drawback is comparison; users constantly compare their lives to the ‘ideal’ social lives displayed online. When peers achieve milestones, travel, or appear effortlessly successful, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. A particularly relevant trend is the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), which is amplified by the real-time nature of social media and fosters a sense of exclusion. This sense of missing out can further exacerbate anxiety. Studies indicate that mental health issues, particularly among young people, have surged since the rise of social media, highlighting its significant role in the decline of psychological well-being.

Low Self-esteem and Body Image Issues

In earlier decades, low self-esteem was often tied to skin colour, weight, and education. Social media plays a major role in distorting self-perception and fuelling body dissatisfaction. It is rare for individuals to share candid, unfiltered images of themselves anymore. Instead, unrealistic beauty standards are propagated through filters, Photoshop, and AI-generated images, promoting unattainable ideals and leaving users dissatisfied with their natural appearance. Additionally, the influence of well-curated images by influencers and celebrities sets unrealistic expectations, making ordinary users feel insecure about their bodies, lifestyles, and achievements. These factors significantly impact mental health, with constant exposure to perceived perfection contributing to self-esteem issues, eating disorders, and body dysmorphia, particularly among young users.

Addictive Dependency

Social media platforms are engineered to be addictive, manipulating brain chemistry to keep users engaged for extended periods. This has created a new phenomenon of instant gratification, manifesting as likes, comments, and shares that trigger dopamine release, creating a cycle similar to gambling or substance addiction. As a result, there has been a rise in addiction among children. Moreover, excessive social media use is linked to decreased attention spans, increased stress levels, and a reliance on online validation for self-worth.

The Continuation of Harassment

In previous decades, bullying often occurred in physical spaces like schools and colleges; today, social media bullying has taken it to another level. Victims can be pursued into their homes, making it inescapable through cyberbullying. This dangerous trend can manifest in various forms, including trolling, doxxing, hate speech, and public shaming. Victims of cyberbullying often experience severe emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and, in extreme cases, suicidal tendencies. The anonymity afforded by social media platforms emboldens perpetrators, making these platforms breeding grounds for toxic behaviour.

The Blue Light Syndrome

As children, we were taught that excess of anything is harmful, and social media is no exception. Today, children as young as six months are exposed to mobile devices, leading to excessive screen time, especially before bed, which interferes with sleep patterns and overall productivity. The artificial light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin, a hormone crucial for sleep regulation. For teens and young children, the temptation to check notifications, respond to messages, or endlessly scroll through content can delay bedtime, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. The consequences of poor sleep quality include impaired cognitive function, memory issues, and reduced concentration, ultimately affecting academic and professional performance. By recognizing these challenges and understanding their implications, we can take steps toward mitigating the adverse effects of social media on mental health.

Social Isolation

In our previous blog, we discussed the concept of the “lone generation,” referring to the way children are being affected by the advancement of technology and social media platforms. Nowadays, being social is often equated with being connected online. However, despite the promise of connectivity that social media offers, it frequently results in increased loneliness and weakened interpersonal relationships. Online interactions tend to lack the depth and emotional nuances found in face-to-face conversations, which negatively impacts real-life connections. Our heavy reliance on digital communication can hinder the ability to engage in meaningful, real-world interactions.

Some Possible Solutions

While there is no fool-proof method to eliminate social media, users can take proactive steps to protect their mental health. Parents must establish digital boundaries for their children. This can include setting screen time limits to prevent excessive usage using parental control apps. Designating tech-free zones, such as bedrooms or during family meal times, is also beneficial. Additionally, using apps that track and limit social media consumption can help maintain a healthier balance.

The main objective is to promote positivity and self-acceptance, rather than encouraging comparison and negativity. Parents should encourage their kids to unfollow or mute individuals who trigger feelings of anxiety or insecurity. Parents need to be intentional about their children’s online engagement—encouraging them to avoid doom-scrolling and unnecessary interactions.

Despite all our efforts, it remains essential to return to our roots by promoting more playtime outside the home. Kids should take periodic breaks from social media to reset their mental well-being. Encourage them to engage in offline hobbies, such as reading, exercising, or spending time in nature, while also prioritizing face-to-face interactions over virtual ones.

Conclusion

Social media is a double-edged sword. While it offers numerous benefits, its negative effects on mental health cannot be ignored. Issues such as anxiety, addiction, body image concerns, and sleep disturbances are increasingly becoming a growing concern. However, by setting boundaries, practicing mindful consumption, and advocating for ethical digital spaces, we can reclaim control and foster a healthier relationship with technology. Ultimately, social media should be a tool for connection, not a source of distress.

Are you ready to take back control of your digital well-being? The choice is yours.

The word “exam” has the infamous trait of inducing high levels of anxiety and pressure in students and parents alike. Amidst this, the ubiquitous presence of smartphones, social media, and online distractions serve as a hindrance to academic performance.

Imagine parents watching their children trying desperately to focus on critical pre-board exams, struggling to concentrate as phone notifications constantly interrupt. A digital detox, a conscious effort to minimize screen time can help students stay productive, reduce stress, and improve academic performance.

As a parent, you are likely wondering about actionable digital detox strategies to balance your child’s screen time effectively, without seeming like too much parental control.

Understanding the Need for Digital Detox

Let’s talk some numbers to understand the sheer magnitude of the problem. According to research, a student in India checks his phone 150 times daily on an average, and a whopping 63% use their phones for 4-7 hours daily. An InMobi research reveals the Top 5 App categories in India – social networking, photoand video, games, entertainment and utilities.

While the time spent on these apps may not come as a surprise, teenagers spend 4-7 hours daily on their mobile phones is cause for worry. Another study conducted by the NCERT in 2022 on Mental Health and Wellbeing among school students found that 31% of students surveyed were stressed about exams.

These numbers reveal an undeniable truth – parents/adults and children are increasingly smartphone dependant. Our goal is to provide practical digital detox strategies that can help families manage screentime, particularly during exam periods, ultimately enhancing family wellbeing and improve academic performance of your children.

Practical Tips on Digital Detox

While implementing digital detox strategies, remember to make it a fun, collaborative family activity rather than introducing harsh measures that could add stress to an already pressured situation.

Implement festival-style digital fasts by setting structured screentime during exam periods.  Begin with short, pre-determined digital detox fasts integrated into study schedules. Start with limited ‘allowed screen time’ and progressively extend these periods to ‘no screen time’.  Turning off screen notifications during study time also helps students stay focused and decreases the urge to turn to their devices.

Create ‘gadget-free zones’ –   create a ‘no phone/ gadget-free’ zone at home. Add visual interest with a No Parking Sign or No Phone / Silence Zone sign on the study room door.  While going for tuition/ coaching classes, tell your children to keep their phones at home. Alternatively, use apps that help monitor their screen time, turn off notifications and keep devices on silent during that period.

Make ‘break time’ a family time – families can undergo digital detoxification together. Break times that are scheduled in their study calendar (read our tips to handle exam season)  should be time to unwind. Engage in activities like board games, quizzes, reading, music, antakshri, or having family discussions. Detoxing during breaks reduces stress, improves focus, resulting in more productive study time, and better academic performance.

Follow the 20-20-20 rule – the WHO forecasts that by 2050 50% of the world’s population will suffer from myopia, due to excessive screen exposure. Dry eyes, myopia, headaches and migraines are some of the effects of too much screen time. To defocus from device screens, the 20-20-20 rule is effective – every 20 minutes, remind your child to look away from his/her screen and focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds; this reduces eye strain and improves visual health.

Moving Forward

The benefits of implementing mindful digital detox strategies are manifold – reduced anxiety and stress, improved focus in a distraction-free environment, better retention of concepts, enhanced sleep quality, fosters a sense of cultural connection and stronger mental, physical and emotional wellbeing. Parents play a crucial role in supporting children during exam season by creating a balanced approach to technology use.
Digital detox is about managing screentime strategically and not by eliminating technology entirely. By implementing these strategies, students can create an environment that supports both academic excellence and digital wellness.

Team Parent Genee

Sources:
NCERT Study of 2022 on Mental Health and Wellbeing of School Students
HCL Healthcare on Eye Tips
AMU & ICSSR study quoted by NDTV & HT
InMobil Mobile Marketing Handbook 2024

As exams approach, stress levels tend to rise for both parents and children, making it important to manage the anxieties. This ensuing guide puts the spotlight on supportive and stress-free strategies to promote your child’s well-being and success.

The tense look on every parent’s face during exam time is a constant. The stress is not only limited to just the parent, but also ripples to the surroundings, affecting  the child too. What if I tell you that there is a more stress-free option?

Managing exam time anxiety, both your own and your child’s, is essential at such crucial times. While it can be overwhelming, a few thoughtful strategies can help create a calmer atmosphere. These strategies will help you create a supportive and stress-free environment for your child. By doing so, you can promote their well-being and success during this critical academic period.

The Numbers Explain

According to the 2022 study by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) report that approximately 80% of Indian students in classes 9-12 experienced exam-related stress. Furthermore, additional studies have found that 95% of students whose parents are actively involved tend to perform well academically. The right kind of support can make a difference.

The BIG question is: What really works? There are several theories, but here are some practical approaches any parent can adopt to support their child during the exam period:

Balance is Key: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce exam stress is by working with your child to create a daily schedule that incorporates dedicated study periods, short breaks, and time for relaxation. Establishing a balanced schedule is crucial for effective time management. Studies from Cambridge University and other institutions have shown a direct correlation between good time management and improved academic performance.

The HESE Formula: We have all heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” and the same can be said about studying. Ensuring a healthy eating, sleeping, and exercise (HESE) routine will provide your child with the right nutrients for better focus and concentration. Unfortunately, the stress of exam preparation often leads to neglecting proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise, which are crucial for your child’s physical and mental well-being.

As a parent, it is important to support your child’s routine by providing brain-boosting foods, encouraging a consistent sleep schedule, and promoting daily exercise, even if it’s just for 20-30 minutes. Remember, maintaining a balanced HESE schedule is essential for your child’s overall health and academic success.

Be Supportive – Every child is unique, and yours is no exception—celebrate that uniqueness! Often, parents compare their child’s progress with that of their peers, especially in a competitive academic environment. This can negatively impact a child’s performance and undermine their confidence. However, children who feel supported by their parents in recognizing their unique abilities demonstrate greater resilience and perform better under pressure. Celebrate milestones, big or small, to boost their confidence.

Make learning fun: It is commonly said that practice makes any activity easier to understand. According to the Harvard Gazette, students who engage in active learning methods perform better than those who rely solely on passive reading. Techniques such as flashcards, summaries, and mock tests that simulate exam conditions can make studying more enjoyable. These methods can enhance your child’s retention of information and help them feel better prepared and more confident.

Measuring actual learning versus feeling of learning in response to being actively engaged in the classroom

Digital Distractions: Today, parents face the challenge of managing the increasing number of digital distractions, such as mobile phones and tablets. It’s noteworthy that recent research indicates that an average student in India checks their phone 150 times a day, and around 63% of them spend 4 to 7 hours daily on their devices. Our guide offers insights on how to establish digital-free times at home during exam periods. Implementing a digital detox not only enhances focus but also encourages meaningful offline interactions, such as family dinners or evening walks.

Goal Setting: Achievements, whether big or small, are rarely accomplished without clear goals. This principle applies to exam preparation as well. Recent studies from the Journal of Applied Psychology reveal that setting goals can improve performance by 25%. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals can prevent your child from feeling overwhelmed. By celebrating each milestone, you can keep your child motivated throughout the exam season.

The Emotional Connect: Exam time is not only critical for supervision and study but also brings heightened emotions for both parents and children. During this stressful period, parents need to raise their emotional quotient. One of the most important things a parent can do is to be emotionally available. Your calm and encouraging presence can provide reassurance to your child during stressful moments. Engage in conversations with them, offer support, and help build their confidence while also promoting their mental and emotional well-being.

There is no single correct approach to navigating this stressful period; it often involves trial and error. However, every parent knows what works best for their child. We have outlined some effective strategies for growth and learning. By focusing on balanced routines, healthy habits, effective time management, and emotional support, you’re not only helping your child excel in their exams but also equipping them with life skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Sources:

NCERT Study of 2022 on Mental Health and Wellbeing of School Students
Solutions for exam stress
Mahindra University on Healthy Diet
Effect of Time Management on Academic Performance
Effect of Time Management on Academic Performance of Students
Parental Involvement
Harvard Gazette on Lessons in Learning
Goal-setting theory on enhancing motivation