July 31,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, in a recent letter to parents Ridgewood Schools Superintendent discussed the idea of having too much screen time on electronic devices .
Superintendent Daniel Fishbien admitted that time have changed with the wide use of smart phones ,but voiced his concerns of students personal use and time of these devices.
How screen time is too much ? Although many parents have a nagging sense that they should do more to limit screen-time, they often question whether there’s enough evidence to justify yanking coveted devices, rationalize that it’s “part of our kids’ culture,” or worry that others—such as a spouse—will undermine their efforts.
The truth about the potential damage screen time is capable of imparting particularly in a young, still-developing brain is significant according to many studies . These side effects include impaired cognitive functioning. Imaging studies have found less efficient information processing and reduced impulse inhibition (Dong & Devito 2013), increased sensitivity to rewards and insensitivity to loss (Dong & Devito 2013), and abnormal spontaneous brain activity associated with poor task performance (Yuan 2011).
Thus the idea came about of the “Big Disconnect ” .School officials are now exploring ways to help parents disengage students and get them to disconnect from electronic devices.
The following programs have been announced as part of the district’s Wellbeing Speaker Series in an attempt to address the “Big Disconnect ” issue :
Oct. 11: Brief overview of the schools’ use of educational technology and its security followed up breakout sessions led by administrators on the book “The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age.”
Oct. 19: A screening of the movie “Screen-agers.”
Nov. 29: A special program entitled “Screen wise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World.”
Jan. 11: A hands-on technology and smartphone program for parents.
March 8: A panel of students will discuss their personal use of technology.