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It is challenging for parents to control their children’s internet use. The fact that the Internet is useful and harmful for children leaves parents in a dilemma as despite supervision, reminders and house rules, some
children, when it comes to feeding their curiosity and getting what they want, break the rules to satisfy their needs. Some children may be innocent,
obedient and trustworthy, but with the lure of the Internet, many are easily influenced. In this
situation, parents need to realise that children can be naughtier and smarter
than they thought.
The popularity of local and international dramas, movies and novels
that focus on adult genres, including romance, relationships and marriage, influences children and teenagers who watch them. These hobbies, which are beneficial if the right movies and books are
selected to develop children’s critical and positive thinking, and teach them
lessons in life, make children eager to
experience adults lives. Consequently, schoolchildren become excited when they are approached by strangers on the Internet.
The
growing interest in watching dramas on television and reading teen novels should be viewed cautiously. Chances are this habit will lead to negative effects. Some schoolchildren would rather postpone their
homework unless they have finished watching drama
episodes or reading the final chapters of a romance novel. Their infatuation with fictional characters is so strong that it encourages them to treat online strangers openly without being
suspicious of their intentions.
We can save children from
becoming victims of exploitative individuals on the Internet. For example,
Information and communications technology teachers should explain the good and bad effects of the Internet. These students should be reminded not
to disclose their identity and personal information as well as not to form a
close online relationships with strangers. Parents should be mindful of their
children’s activities and avoid thinking that their teenage
offspring are mature enough to decide for themselves.
Courtesy of New Sunday Times
21 June 2015
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