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How does technology use affect executive functioning skills in children?

Jerrilyn Doree

Well hello there, my fellow social media enthusiast! Are you ready for a fun and educational ride? Because today we're going to talk about a topic that should interest both parents and tech-savvy kids: how does technology use affect executive functioning skills in children?

For starters, let's define what executive functioning skills are. According to the American Psychological Association, executive functions are "a set of cognitive processes, including attentional control, inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, as well as reasoning, problem-solving, and planning." In simpler terms, these skills allow us to focus, remember, prioritize, organize, and adapt to new situations. They're like the CEO of our brain, making sure everything runs smoothly.

Now, how does technology fit into this picture? Well, let's think about the typical activities that kids engage in using technology: playing video games, scrolling through social media feeds, watching YouTube videos, chatting with friends, etc. These activities can be highly stimulating and rewarding, often involving instant gratification and constant stimulation. However, they can also be highly distracting and overloading, requiring minimal effort and attention. In other words, they don't necessarily promote the development of executive functioning skills in children.

But don't despair just yet! There are ways in which technology can actually enhance executive functioning skills, if used properly. For example, educational apps and games that require problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making can be a great way to challenge and develop these skills. Also, using technology as a tool for setting reminders, managing schedules, and keeping track of tasks can help with organization and planning.

So, what's the verdict? Is technology a friend or foe of executive functioning skills in children? Well, as with most things in life, the answer is: it depends. It depends on how technology is being used, how often, and for what purpose. It also depends on the individual child and their unique needs and preferences. As a responsible user of technology, it's important to be aware of these factors and make conscious decisions about how to use technology in a way that promotes rather than hinders the development of executive functioning skills.

In conclusion, technology can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to executive functioning skills in children. As a savvy social media user, it's up to us to find the right balance between digital and non-digital activities, and to use technology in a mindful and purposeful way that supports our brain's top-notch CEO. So go ahead, enjoy your tech time, but don't forget to give your executive functions a workout every once in a while!