Technology Case

I see a parenting technique a lot now a days, I call it the "get away and play with my phone" technique. My aunt has done this with my little cousin ever since I can remember. If we are out eating he has his tablet, family gatherings he has it, when I babysit him he has it. It is a constant need for technology, almost like an addiction. I can already tell he has developed social awkwardness towards me personally; I am always trying to talk to him just to get to know him better. It is honestly a very sad thing to me when the kid cannot even look at you when you try to have a sincere conversation with him. I ask him while driving him to my house, "How are you bud?" "Good." he replies. Never lifting his nose out of the hypnotic screen displaying angry birds. "Did you have a good day at school? Did you learn anything?" I question him, "No, not really." Again he never even raises his head to try to speak with me.

Technology has taken over our society. Almost every aspect of our lives has now been centered with some type of technological device. These devices are here to help us, I know that, but too much technology has brought our social skills to an embarrassing point. Everywhere you go you see it, almost everything you do you use it. Even though technology brings people together, it also is hindering our face-to-face interaction.

I love technology. I also know my limit. I do not mind a kid playing X-box every now and then, or having a Facebook and twitter. It is when their life becomes consumed by these devices is when the problem generates. These things do not prepare you for an adult life. I cannot imagine a video game accomplishment being something you put down on a job application. Or how many likes you got on one of your instagram selfies to land you that dream job you always wanted.

When I was younger I went outside and played with other kids, tag, flag football, hide and seek. Now when I talk to kids they cant wait to go home and get online and play with their friends. A virtual world is not the same as going outside and making memories with your childhood friends. I have some very important memories that I cherish from being outside with my friends. Memories that I am afraid I might have never have had if I was born 10 years later.

Social interaction is going to be a key component to make people stand out for our next generations. I believe that in the future it will be rare for children and teenagers to be "people person's". I am honestly worried about the next generations and what their take on technology will be when it comes to social interaction. I know I will prepare my children well, I hope that you will do the same for yours. I have already seen the effects it has on my little cousin and I am worried for how he will behave with others in the future because of technology.