The report delves into critical issues surrounding children’s interaction with technology, examining aspects such as time spent online, the role of social networking, and the psychological effects of excessive gadget usage. Additionally, it explores pressing concerns tied to online safety, including privacy violations and cyberbullying, providing a detailed account of the digital challenges children face today.
In an era where connectivity is integral to daily life, children are increasingly immersed in the digital realm. This becomes particularly evident as families in the UAE prepare for the school term, with many transitioning from holiday gadgets to schoolbooks. The report highlights that a significant majority of parents, about 93%, provide gadgets for educational purposes. However, despite this positive intent, one of the most concerning aspects remains the sheer amount of time children spend online.
The survey reveals that 30% of UAE parents have experienced conflicts with their children over online habits, with 64% citing excessive screen time as the primary issue. As children grow older, their online presence tends to increase, heightening the risk of digital dependency. In response to these challenges, 92% of parents are reported to limit screen time in an effort to ensure their children maintain a healthier balance between the digital and real world.
Digital addiction has emerged as a significant problem, with alarming consequences for children’s emotional health. According to the report, 80% of children in the UAE express an inability to imagine life without their devices. This dependence manifests in strong emotional responses when access to gadgets is disrupted. For instance, when a device runs out of battery, 45% of surveyed children feel very sad, 28% report feelings of anger, and 12% experience fear. Such intense reactions can lead to friction between parents and children while also impacting the child’s mental well-being.
Experts emphasize the need to counteract the negative impacts of digital dependency. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, notes the addictive nature of digital activities and advocates for a shift toward real-world experiences. He explains that while digital platforms offer captivating content, the real world can provide even greater opportunities for engagement and connection when families dedicate time to shared activities. Such efforts, he suggests, are vital for building stronger bonds and creating lasting memories.
Adding to this perspective, Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel for META at Kaspersky, highlights the importance of balancing technology’s benefits with its potential risks. While gadgets are increasingly central to education, they also serve as entertainment hubs, which can lead to overuse and exposure to online dangers such as cyberbullying and privacy breaches. Jedidi stresses the importance of implementing tools and strategies that promote healthy online behavior while safeguarding children from digital threats.
Creating a seamless and balanced approach to technology use requires proactive measures from parents. One recommendation is to encourage children to value in-person friendships and real-life social interactions alongside their online connections. Parents can also employ parental control tools like Kaspersky Safe Kids, which monitor online activity and help regulate screen time effectively. Establishing clear family-wide boundaries for digital usage is another critical strategy, as children often mirror their parents’ habits. By modeling balanced technology use, parents can inspire similar behavior in their children.
Equally important is parental education on cybersecurity. Staying informed about emerging digital risks, popular apps, and effective safety practices can empower parents to guide their children more effectively. From understanding the basics of online security to recognizing the signs of cyberbullying, these steps are essential in minimizing digital risks and fostering positive habits.
As education continues to integrate more digital tools, striking a balance between online and offline activities has become more important than ever. While technology has undeniable advantages for learning and entertainment, unchecked usage can lead to emotional challenges and digital addiction. By creating clear boundaries, encouraging real-world experiences, and using technology responsibly, families can help children navigate the digital landscape in a healthier, more balanced way.