In this digital age, the form of childhood is changing rapidly. The pressure of modern education, technological advancement and increasing access to social media have greatly affected the lives of children. Childhood, which was once considered a time to play, laugh, imagine and learn new things, is now getting surrounded by competition, expectations and responsibilities. The pressure on children to bring good results in studies is much more than before. School work, tests, tuitions and other activities have become a large part of their daily schedule. Parents also want their children to stay ahead in sports and other fields along with studies.
In this competition, very little time is left for children to play of their own free will, spend time with friends and explore new things. The purpose of education should not be only to get good marks, but also the social, emotional and creative development of children.
Emphasizing thinking, finding solutions to problems and learning new skills in modern education is a good thing. But along with this, children's imagination, play and creativity should also be given equal importance. Children do not learn only through books and classes, but they also learn a lot while playing, making mistakes and understanding things around them. If their every moment is fixed for one work or another, then their natural desire to learn and freedom to think can be affected. Technological advancement has also brought a big change in children's lives.
Through mobile phones, tablets and internet, they easily get information from all over the world. There are many benefits of this, but its unnecessary and uncontrolled use is also a matter of concern. Children at a young age start seeing and reading such content which is not suitable for their age and understanding. Due to this, the boundary between childhood and adult life starts getting blurred. Sometimes children start getting worried about such topics and social issues, for understanding which they still need more time and proper guidance.
The influence of social media is also an important reason for this change. From a young age, children start comparing themselves with others' pictures, lifestyle and way of living. Approval received through likes, comments and shared pictures becomes important for them. Many children try to look like others or live a life like theirs. Due to this, they have inferiority complex, anxiety and pressure to prove themselves.
The life shown on the internet is not always real, but it is not easy for children to understand this difference. Apart from this, social expectations also affect children. Parents often want to see their children ahead in every field for their good future. In this desire, sometimes they keep more expectations from children than their age, interest and ability. Some children also have to bear the emotional burden of family problems along with household responsibilities.
The effect of all these pressures is on the mental and emotional health of children. Due to constant competition, expectations and comparison, stress, irritability and lack of self-confidence can arise in them. If children do not get a chance to play freely, do activities of their choice and express their feelings, then their natural development is affected. Such experiences gained in childhood itself help in strengthening a person's thinking, nature and relationships in future. Schools should also give adequate time for sports, art and other creative activities along with studies.
Along with reducing the burden of unnecessary tests and homework on children, it is necessary to encourage their interest in learning. Parents should also understand their interests and abilities instead of comparing children with others. It is also important to set age-appropriate limits for the use of mobile and internet and to talk openly with children.
Childhood is a precious stage of human life, which should not be sacrificed to competition and expectations. It is not enough to just prepare children to become successful individuals of the future, but it is also necessary to give them a happy childhood today.
- Davinder Kumar
