The cell phone in the hands of children, like a magic crystal, captures their attention and immerses them in a parallel, intangible and unreal world. His eyes widen, reflecting the light from the screen, as his fingers dance across the touch surface. In that small device, they find a universe of colors, sounds and possibilities.
Children become digital explorers, swiping through apps, discovering virtual worlds and connecting with others through messages and emojis. The cell phone has become your constant companion.
Watching a child absorbed in their cell phone is like witnessing a spell in action. Their minds are immersed in an “alternate reality” or “digital lie,” as time fades away. Adults sometimes wonder what they find so fascinating on that small screen. Parents and grandparents, we are afraid to give our opinion, but we have to set an example.
Perhaps, in that hypnotic trance, children are building their own imaginary worlds, creating stories and adventures that only they can see. Or perhaps, they are simply enjoying the feeling of control and power that the cell phone gives them.
The cell phone in the hands of children is a reminder of the duality of technology: its ability to captivate and educate, but also to disconnect and isolate. Many parents give their children these devices with the sole purpose of entertaining their children, “taking a weight off their shoulders”, without realizing that, unintentionally, they are immersing them in an unreal world that in no way prepares them to face it, the “concrete jungle”.
Parents must set an example and encourage the controlled use of cell phones and any digital media. I can't stand seeing children sitting at the table immersed in their screens while the food gets cold and is crawled by insects. These are things that should not be allowed.