It is important to strike a balance between encouraging young children’s activities and performing statistical analysis via the device.
Most children need more physical activity on a daily basis. For example, a 7-year-old child should do at least one hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity (such as running or playing soccer) for her every day.
Not all schools have enough physical space for children to safely engage in moderate to vigorous levels of physical activity during school hours, so as a society we need to make sure that children get enough physical activity. They tend to rely on extracurricular activities. .
Ideally, investments should be made in developing appropriate play spaces around the school so that children can play and move freely to the level they need.
We also need to model and create opportunities for children to move willingly, to move spontaneously, and to move in play rather than being told to do so by a device they wear. We encourage our children to adjust physical activity to their bodies and experience joy, rather than following the instructions of a fitness tracker and seeing it as something they have to do to meet a statistical quota. I would like to. Let’s have fun doing it.
Anxious children may become hypervigilant when using these devices and become overly concerned if their heart rate increases or their step count decreases. Keep in mind that young children’s gait is still developing, so fitness trackers may underestimate your child’s level of movement and provide unnecessary prompts.
However, some children with medical conditions may benefit from tracking their heart rate, sleep, and movement, but this is usually arranged by a doctor’s advice and is a parent’s choice.
We need to be careful about giving our children mixed messages. We say not to spend too much time on your digital devices, but having a 24-hour digital device strapped to your wrist can be confusing.
Problems can arise if you believe the school is doing something positive and beneficial to children, but parents disagree or don’t want their young children to be involved. .
I think the school and parent community could work together to communicate openly about what is happening within the school and perhaps leverage the parent community more to get parents more involved. We believe it is essential and mutually beneficial.
I don’t think you’re overreacting. Your answer is valid. We encourage you to contact your school to share your concerns and return your device.
- If you have any questions for child psychotherapist Dr Joanna Fortune, please send them to [email protected].