Media and the Mind: Pediatricians guide to screen time.

Media and the Mind: Pediatricians guide to screen time.

Devices, Guidelines, Hazards, Resources, Reviews
Like the snowflakes that fall from the sky, no two people are exactly alike. Psalm 139 tells us of God’s craftsmanship and knowledge of each individual He created. The psalmist praises,”I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Each person's needs vary from one another. And our children are no exception. In fact, a child's brain needs guidance and instruction from caring adults at all ages. Screen time and media usage is an area of attentiveness adults must be aware of when raising children.  In an article covering this major topic, Mayo Clinic guides parents and caretakers on digital literacy, problems, developing rules, and teaching good behaviors with screens.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/screen-time/art-20047952 In a general Q & A article, the American Academy of Pediatricians reiterates the previously mentioned topics. They have also included a…
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 Human Connections / Relationships vs. Tech Connections

 Human Connections / Relationships vs. Tech Connections

Reviews
The human body is remarkable in how all of its systems are intertwined into the composition of each individual. Some people are more outgoing and bubbly while others are content with being more solitary. Despite these differences in character, all humans need some interaction with others. This became very clear with Covid. The main theme during Covid  was to isolate yourselves to prevent the spread. A side effect of that was an increase in depression, suicide, alcoholism etc. This was largely due to the feeling of being isolated. We all need someone to connect with to fulfill our lives. Today, human connection is being lost due to the invention of technology, which more and more isolates us from actually talking face to face with another person. Technology is always changing…
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ChatGPT

ChatGPT

Chatbot News, Guidelines, Resources, Reviews
I Didn’t Write This Article; ChatGPT Did Title: The Pros and Cons of Artificial General Intelligence: A Parent's Perspective on ChatGPT Introduction Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) has long been a topic of fascination and concern. AGI, unlike narrow or specialized AI, possesses the ability to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks, much like the human brain. ChatGPT, a prominent example of AGI, has garnered significant attention, sparking both excitement and apprehension among parents. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of AGI with a specific focus on ChatGPT from a parent's viewpoint. Pros of Artificial General Intelligence: 1. Education and Learning Enhancement: AGI systems like ChatGPT have the potential to revolutionize education. Parents can use such tools to supplement their children's…
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Locket & LiveIn Apps

Locket & LiveIn Apps

Apps, Editorials, Reviews
Back in the day, a locket was a necklace given as a sentimental or romantic gift that one would cherish for years. It held a photo of a loved one that could be opened and remembered as often as desired.  Today, there is a new “locket”– an app downloaded to your device.  This Locket app is also a way to express sentiment. The Locket app is a photo sharing app, in which one can send photos somewhat similar to sharing a photo on Snapchat or WhatsApp. However the differences are as follows:  - The photos automatically appear on the other person’s home phone screen as a widget–you do not open an app to see the picture. It’s a bit like a private social media platform right there on your home…
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Time to BeReal

Time to BeReal

Apps, Guidelines, Reviews
“Strip[ping] away all of the unrealistic expectations social media has put on us all” says one reviewer of the popular new app ‘BeReal’ (source: BeReal App Review). Solely looking at that fact, one may think the new social media app is a breath of fresh air compared to the other ‘big 4’. It requests filterless, unedited photos from users at varying times of the day - with only 2 minutes to get it submitted. A few caveats to the positives: If the two minute time frame is not achieved, the app notes it; and users can’t see others’ content unless they post their own for the day. Also, users are encouraged to report immoral content to the company, but the company itself is not required to monitor the content. The…
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Public Library Pitfalls

Public Library Pitfalls

Hazards, Resources, Reviews
Modern Media Articles | First NRC Modern Media Committee *Please note, that although we have found valuable information from an external web page for our blog post, we do not endorse all information, religious views and opinions posted on these third-party websites.
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All Sides

All Sides

Resources, Reviews
AllSides is an American company that presents viewers with multiple versions of similar news stories from different perspectives to show readers news outside their filter bubble.  It exposes people to information and ideas from all sides of the political spectrum to increase their understanding of the world and each other.   AllSides portrays the day’s top news stories from the Left, Center and Right of the political spectrum side-by-side so you can view the whole picture.  Each article is reviewed and labeled left, left leaning, center, right leaning or right.   Knowing the political bias of media outlets allows you to consume a balanced news diet and avoid manipulation and fake news.  Media Bias Ratings are provided for over 800 media outlets and writers, so you can easily identify different perspectives.  https://www.allsides.com/media-bias …
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Oculus Quest 2 Review

Oculus Quest 2 Review

Devices, Gaming, Hazards, Reviews
According to the webpage, oculus.com/quest-2/, Oculus Quest 2 is “an all-in-one headset filled with hundreds of unique experiences.” These experiences include playing games, doing a virtual tour of places around the world, and working out. It appears the main focus is to get teens and young adults to play games and “lose track of time” (also cited on their webpage).  To “lose track of time” is a very dangerous reality many gamers face. Time is a God-given gift that He instructs us to use to seek Him. Ephesians 5:16 speaks about “redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” This tells us that we must be wise about how we spend our time. In regards to the gaming aspect and being “immersed” in a virtual reality, Oculus Quest 2 can…
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