Smartphones and tablets, toys very present in the new generations
New technologies and young people become an increasingly inseparable tandem. Nowadays, children grow up with devices with an Internet connection and learn to use them almost at the same time as speaking or reading. In fact these devices have become a very present utensil among the smallest of the house, replacing traditional toys.
This is indicated by the Technological Institute for Children and Leisure Products, AIJU, in its Toy Guide, where the increase in the presence of new technologies among the smallest of the house. From devices such as smartphones and tablets to smart TVs, children increasingly use fewer toys and more instruments with an internet connection.
Early use of new technologies
The data of the AIJU Guide leave no room for doubt: new technologies are very present among the smallest. TO early ages, children already use these devices and between 40 and 60% of children under 1-2 years old already use smartphones and tablets as a form of entertainment. The content they consume mainly are cartoons and other videos on online viewing platforms.
As for the time of use, the 32% of children between 1 and 12 years, he spends 2 hours a week using tablets or smartphones. Amount that increases as they grow up to 4 hours in children under 11-12 years. On the contrary, the use of toys is reduced as small children stop being so and if at 2 years 80% of minors spend 4 hours a week, at 4 years the percentage is 53%.
At age 8, fewer children spend time using their toys and only 32% of these children use these objects for your fun. Given this scenario, it is not surprising that 77% of families surveyed say they are worried about the time their children spend on new technologies. Within this group, 29% say they are very concerned about the amount that is invested in the use of these devices.
Benefits of family play
The AIJU Guide also talks about the importance of family game, an activity that they highlight as very important. Through this activity the bond between the members of the home can be strengthened since it supposes a practice that has as a result the fun and leaves in the memory of all pleasant memories. From this organization the following benefits stand out:
- Improves communication between household members.
- Facilitate the expression of emotions.
- Strengthens affective bonds.
- Develops confidence and self-esteem.
Given these benefits, it is not surprising that more than 90% of the respondents rated the game as a family important activity In the home. Among the activities preferred by the participants in this study include crafts, board games and outdoor practices (bicycles, balls, etc.). As for the relatives with whom these practices are most commonly shared, parents are the main companions in 77%, in the second place siblings, 64%.
Grandparents are also companions of children's play to be present in 30% of cases. Finally, AIJU reminds that these activities should not only involve the gift of a toy to the children, but be accompanied by an investment of time in them, something that will encourage in them values such as cooperation, empathy and generosity by sharing what it's yours.
Damián Montero
