A few years ago, an SUV accidentally ran over a two-year-old girl. The video went viral and made the rounds in social media. The scary thing about the video is the fact that even though the mother was with her daughter, she was unable to keep her safe.
Why? Because during the incident that took place in China, the child’s mom was glued to her smartphone.
This tragedy simply highlights the dangers of smartphones and the risks that come with being addicted to technology.
The distraught mother | Image: YouTube
Toddler’s Death Highlights Dangers of Distracted Parenting
In the video, you can see the toddler walking on a road with her mom, who was checking her mobile phone. All of a sudden, the little girl veers towards the path of an SUV.
Due to the vehicle’s height, the driver is unable to see the little girl, and accidentally runs her over. Sadly, she is already dead when the ambulance arrives. What’s even more disturbing is the fact that the child’s mom could have prevented her death, if she had only kept an eye on her kid instead of her phone.
While smartphones aren’t inherently bad, misuse or too much use can greatly increase the danger of smartphones.
It’s also not an isolated case either. There was another incident where a child drowned while his mom was busy on her phone. Being addicted to smartphones can pose a real threat, and the dangers of smartphones can’t simply be ignored.
Child Safety – Not Your Inbox – Should Be Your Priority
Smartphones are an amazing invention. Not only do smartphones make people’s lives more convenient, they also let us connect freely with one another. However, smartphones also pose a risk. An example would be when people get too addicted to using their phones, or checking social media on their mobile devices.
That’s why it’s important for moms and dads to use their phones responsibly and to avoid constantly being on their phone.
This is especially true when you’re outside with your kid. It’s a good idea to keep your phone on silent whenever you’re out and about. This helps you concentrate on your child’s safety and make sure that they’re not in immediate danger. Another benefit is that this will let you focus on bonding with your child.
Parents should also set an example to their kids when it comes to responsible smartphone use. Smartphones should be used as a tool to make life easier, and not as a replacement for human interaction. Encourage your family to have some outdoor activities and go out and talk to people.
Like most things, smartphone use can be bad, if not controlled.
Source: New York Times
READ: Help break a smartphone addiction with the ‘150 rule’!
Republished with permission from: theAsianParent Singapore