The Internet Influence on Kids

It is a well-known fact that some kids spend way too much time on the internet, on games, and other electronics . Most parents argue that the internet is bad for their children and sometimes it is, when it is not used properly, but in some ways it can be beneficial. In the U.S. kids are spending more and more time on the internet playing games and other activities. It is recommended by The American Academy of Pediatricians, that children using the internet should be watched and monitored until age 10. The internet can be used for good or in unhealthy ways, it all depends on how you use it.

The internet influence on a child’s psychological development is great. A child’s exposure to the media should be monitored for age-appropriate content so they are not exposed to inappropriate or negative influences early in their lives. It CNN states that, “By the time they’re two years old, more than 90% of all American children have an online history.” The media can affect a child’s emotional and social development, and they can grow lonely, and depressed. Sitting in front of the computer for long periods at a time can affect their eyesight and increases obesity. Kid’s on Instagram or Snapchat are exposed to all sorts of inappropriate things, because the internet is not always safe. Online games that promote violence attract children’s attention easily. The flip side is that the internet is a good tool as well if used properly and safely.

The internet is used for many helpful tools and for a child playing games it can fuel a child’s creativity and teamwork among children. It can also increase hand-eye coordination and can be used as a learning tool, like the website ABC Mouse. With the supervision of an adult or teacher, it can improve knowledgeable and intelligence. The internet can be used to help teach kids with special needs or some that have a learning disability. The internet for kids can also just be fun, they can play games, stay in touch with family members, message friends, and lots of other activities.

The internet has many benefits and negative parts about it, but it is how you use it. If a parent monitors a child’s usage and what they do, they won’t start using the internet in bad ways from a young age. The internet can also be used for communication for families and friends and is beneficial for a child and connection. Children can normally use the internet but all children lack some maturity, so parent supervision is recommended when it comes to their safety online. The internet balances itself out, it has good benefits and negative impacts, but overall it is a tool of many skills and benefits the world.

Work Cited

Rana, Kesar. “Internet Influence On Kids.” Wrytin, Wrytin, 25 May 2019, wrytin.com/roseu10/internet-influence-on-kids-jw3ilivt.

Parade. “Age-Based Guidelines for Kids' Internet Use.” Parade, Parade, 9 Oct. 2013, parade.com/106915/parade/age-based-internet-guidelines/.

“Monitoring Internet Activity.” Focus on the Family, 10 Nov. 2019, www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/monitoring-internet-activity/.

Clinton, Chelsea, and James P. Steyer. “Is the Internet Hurting Children?” CNN, Cable News Network, 21 May 2012, www.cnn.com/2012/05/21/opinion/clinton-steyer-internet-kids/index.html.