Ever noticed that something keeps coming up in our lives that we don’t even need or want? Most kids would agree on what this 'thing' is: technology – mainly smartphones, tablets, or screens in general. Yes, we know, adults say it’s helpful and good for learning. But as kids, we have mixed feelings about it because, honestly, we didn’t ask for it to become such a big part of our daily lives.
Here’s how technology sneaks it's way into our lives every day – and why we may not be as thrilled about it as adults think.
1. Homework Helper or Homework Hurdle?
One of the main reasons we’re supposed to use tech is for homework. Teachers tell us to research things online, join virtual classes, or use apps for learning. But here’s the truth: sometimes, we’d rather just do things the old-school way with books or asking an adult for help. And let’s be real – once we’re online, it’s way too easy to get distracted with games, videos, or funny memes. So, instead of helping, tech can actually make it harder to focus!
2. Screen Time Wars
Adults love setting 'screen time' limits. They’ll say, “30 minutes a day!” or “Only after your chores!” But because screens are everywhere, we end up using them more than we want. We see them at school, at home, in cars, at stores, and even in restaurants. Sometimes, it feels like adults can’t decide if screens are good or bad, but they expect us to use them in all these places. Confusing, right?
3. Not as Fun as Real-Life Play
Sure, video games are fun, and some apps can be entertaining, but there’s nothing like playing outside, building things with our hands, or spending time with friends. Tech tries to make things 'better' with virtual games or apps, but it’s just not the same as exploring, climbing, or inventing new games with friends. We may use it every day, but we’d choose real play over screens any day.
4. Sometimes It Feels Like a Chore
Adults keep giving us more apps for learning, chore tracking, and activities – like our lives need to be organized through a screen! But sometimes, it makes everything feel like homework. We’d rather just learn and do things on our own time without a screen telling us what to do. It’s like tech is trying to take over even the fun parts of our lives.
5.It’s Hard to Stop Using It
We all know that feeling – we open one app, then we watch one video, then another, and soon, we’ve spent way more time than we meant to. It’s like tech is designed to keep us glued to it. Even if we want to stop and go play, it’s super easy to get hooked and keep using it without even realizing it.
So, Why Do We Keep Using It Then?
That’s a good question. Sometimes it feels like we don’t have much of a choice because screens are everywhere. And when adults are on their phones all the time, it’s like we’re expected to follow their lead. We keep using tech not because we love it, but because it’s there and easy to use.
Final Thoughts: A Balance Would Be Better
We get it – technology can be cool and useful, but we don’t need it as much as everyone thinks. A little tech is okay, but we want time to just be kids, too – to play, imagine, and do things that don’t involve a screen. So, maybe if adults understand our side, we can find a balance that lets us use tech only when it’s actually helpful. Until then, we’ll keep using this unwanted 'thing', even if it’s not our first choice every day.