President Lula sanctions Bill No. 4,932/2024, which restricts the use of cell phones and other portable electronic devices in public and private schools throughout the country, including during recess and between classes.
A recent survey released by Mobile Time in collaboration with Opinion Box revealed surprising data about children's smartphone usage. According to the study titled "Children and Adolescents with Smartphones in Brazil," approximately 26% of children aged 4 to 6 already own their own device. But the most striking data is that, even among children aged 0 to 3 years, 7% already have their own smartphone.
Faced with these statistics, it is tempting to fall into the trap of viewing technology as a threat to child development, something to be avoided or restricted. However, it is essential to emphasize that these generations were already born into a world dominated by technology. For them, the use of digital devices has been an integral part of everyday life from a very early age. In this scenario, parents are encouraged to reflect: how can we leverage children's familiarity with technology in a constructive way?
“We must consider that the challenge is not in the technology, but in the way we use it. When we explore the various tools available, such as music, reading apps, games that stimulate cognitive development and even language learning, we realize that technology, when used effectively, favors healthy growth in childhood”, explains psychologist Renata Santana de Moura.
For parents concerned about the impact of technology on their children's lives, it is worth remembering that positive reinforcement is everything, and investing in an education that promotes conscious and creative use of technology can be the key to preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century. Marco Giroto, founder of SuperGeeks, a network of schools specialized in future skills, emphasizes that it is essential to understand that technology is not just a tool for entertainment, but an opportunity to prepare our children for the future. "We believe that parents can leverage the natural aptitude children have for technology to encourage them to develop skills that are essential in an increasingly digitalized world."
Founded by Marco Giroto, SuperGeeks' proposal goes beyond just teaching programming or robotics. The courses offered are comprehensive and practical, aimed at empowering children and stimulating creativity. During classes, students learn everything from basic programming skills to game and app development, acquiring knowledge that will be essential for the future.
We can see that with proper guidance, conscious and creative use of technology can become a powerful tool for children's growth and learning. "In the digital era we live in, it's not just about keeping up with technology, but about staying ahead of it," concludes Giroto.
