By DIANA AL-JASSEM | ARAB NEWS
JEDDAH: Advanced technology has made it difficult for parents to know what their children are watching on Television and the Internet.
However, experts say parents must keep monitoring what their children look at to prevent them from dangers that might emerge as a result of driving their imagination.
A recent report cited the case of a Saudi boy in Jazan who, influenced by a Turkish soap opera, tried to imitate the serial’s hero attempting suicide. The boy failed twice in his attempt, but the third time, he almost succeeded and was admitted to the intensive care unit.
Buthina Khoja, a psychologist at a private hospital in Jeddah, stressed that the first two years of life constituted a critical time for brain development. Although TV encourages the child to explore, play and interact, it may also create a dangerous atmosphere around the child.
“As kids get older, too much time in front of the screen can interfere with activities such as reading, homework, playing with friends and spending time with family. It also affects children when they get too much involved in the scenario they watch and start imitating,” she said.
*** She added, “That’s why it is so important for parents to monitor the content of TV programs and set viewing limits. They should ensure that their kids do not spend too much time parked in front of the TV to watch magic, action movies and horror scenes.”
Categories: Asia, Children, Education, Family values, Films, Health, Internet, Saudi Arabia