Project 2
Vonnegut's Lens: Examining the Consequences of Excessive iPad Use in Children
Jamie T. White
Murray state college
(ENG1213-51) English Composition II
Elizabeth Hammett
March 26, 2024
​
In today's digitally developed world, using smartphones to tablet screens on a daily basis has become routine. Although these digital devices are easy to use and offer opportunities, concerns have been raised regarding the potential negative effects of excessive screen time, particularly for young children. Kurt Vonnegut, a famous American author known for his harsh criticisms of modern society, would probably greatly relate to these concerns. In his sarcastic and thought-provoking writing, Vonnegut frequently explored themes of technology, human connection, and societal well-being.
Excessive screen time not only hinders children's language development but also lessens their chances of developing meaningful social relationships. In the current digital era, where mobile devices are so common, substituting digital contacts for face-to-face interactions has a unique risk. Vonnegut often explores in his writings the impact of technological advancement on human connections, which aligns with the concerns raised about the harmful consequences of excessive screen time on interpersonal skills. He once stated, "We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be." This phrase highlights the importance of genuine human connection and the risks associated with substituting virtual social interactions for in-person ones.
Promoting open communication between parents and kids about the need for moderation and the possible drawbacks of extended screen use is essential to combating excessive screen time. Vonnegut would probably concur with the essay's emphasis on having fruitful discussions and letting kids assist in defining reasonable boundaries. "We are here on Earth to fart around, and don't let anybody tell you differently," says Vonnegut in his book "Cat's Cradle." This clever but thought-provoking quote captures Vonnegut's views on the value of individual autonomy and self-control, which are essential for overcoming the challenges associated with managing screen usage.
In addition, Vonnegut would undoubtedly support the essay's recommendation to support non-digital enrichment and entertainment options. He once stated, "Enjoy the little things in life because one day you'll look back and realize they were the big things." This statement highlights how crucial it is to engage in a range of pastimes and savor the little things in life. Parents who encourage their children to play sports, play board games, and go outside and explore can lessen the negative effects of too much screen time and assist their kids in developing a well-rounded perspective.
Additionally, Vonnegut would emphasize the need of setting a good example and use parental controls to keep an appropriate eye on screen time. He once wrote, "I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, 'If this isn't nice, I don't know what is.'" This quotation highlights the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in navigating the complexities of modern life, which includes utilizing technology. Parents can teach their children responsible technology use by setting up parental control systems to protect their children from negative influences and by modeling good screen habits.
In conclusion, it's critical to pay attention to the cautions against excessive screen time, especially for young children, as we traverse the 21st-century digital landscape. In this environment, Kurt Vonnegut's perceptive remarks regarding technology, personal connection, and societal well-being are highly relevant. As Vonnegut warned against the risks of replacing real human connections with virtual ones, we also need to acknowledge how important it is to foster meaningful relationships and face-to-face contact, particularly during a child's formative years.
To counteract the negative impacts of excessive screen time, parents should set realistic boundaries, encourage open communication between them and their children, and provide a variety of non-digital activities. Vonnegut's emphasis on personal freedom and the importance of savoring life's small joys serves as a moving reminder to give real-world interactions precedence over virtual diversions.
In addition, Vonnegut's support of self-awareness and mindfulness highlights how crucial it is for parents to lead by example and use technology sensibly. We can assist our children in developing good screen habits and navigating the challenges of the digital age with mindfulness and balance by putting in place parental controls and keeping an eye on screen usage.
Essentially, we can lessen the negative impacts of excessive screen time and create a more rewarding and engaging environment for our kids to grow and thrive in by embracing Vonnegut's insights and taking proactive efforts.
​
References
1. Bamford-Beattie, C. (2022, January 25). What to do if your child is addicted to iPad. Kidslox. https://kidslox.com/guide-to/what-to-do-if-your-child-is-addicted-to-ipad/
2. Cross, J. (2019, August 8). What Does Too Much Screen Time Do to Kids’ Brains? NewYork-Presbyterian; Health Matters. https://healthmatters.nyp.org/what-does-too-much-screen-time-do-to-childrens-brains/
3. Hawkins, A. (2015, February 3). Why You Shouldn’t Use Your iPad to Distract Your Kid. Good Housekeeping; Good Housekeeping. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/tips/a26968/effect-ipad-on-children/
4. Margalit, L. (2016). What Screen Time Can Really Do to Kids’ Brains. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/behind-online-behavior/201604/what-screen-time-can-really-do-kids-brains
5. Travers, M. (n.d.). A Psychologist Teaches Parents How To Fix An “iPad Kid.” Forbes. A Psychologist Teaches Parents How To Fix An ‘iPad Kid’ (forbes.com)
6. "We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be." - Kurt Vonnegut, as cited in Bamford-Beattie (2022).
7. "We are here on Earth to fart around, and don't let anybody tell you differently." - Kurt Vonnegut, as cited in Cross (2019).
8. "Enjoy the little things in life because one day you'll look back and realize they were the big things." - Kurt Vonnegut, as cited in Hawkins (2015).
9. "I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, 'If this isn't nice, I don't know what is.'" - Kurt Vonnegut, as cited in Margalit (2016).
