Fajarasia.co – University of Indonesia (UI) child and family psychologist Anna Surti Ariani said that using technology properly can actually be a means to improve children’s social skills.
“Appropriate use of technology can actually improve children’s socialization skills and other skills,” said Anna, in a virtual workshop quoted from Youtube, Wednesday (29/6/2022).
Anna gave an example with the help of parents, fellow children can use their gadgets to share with each other.
“Send snacks to peers or do virtual craft workshops,” says Anna.
The Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI), according to him, has recommended the use of devices with restrictions based on the child’s age.
For children aged two to six years, the use of the device needs to be limited to one hour a day and must be accompanied by a parent.
“Also follow the 20:20:20 rule, which is 20 minutes of looking at the screen of the device, then rest the child’s eyes by keeping the device away about 20 feet for 20 seconds,” he said.
To encourage children’s courage to socialize, according to Anna, face-to-face interaction is also important from an early age, especially for those under the age of seven.
“In the midst of a pandemic, it is very important to always remind children to comply with health protocols when playing, ranging from wearing masks, washing hands to keeping a distance,” he said.
To hone children’s social skills, according to him, parents need to pay attention to interactions between family members and arrange special activities that can stimulate children to interact with other people, such as inviting children to tell stories about their daily lives.
“Try to also create a peaceful atmosphere between family members because children will imitate what they see firsthand,” said Anna Surti Ariani.****
