50 effective strategies to manage stress and improve well-being in students.

 

"Stress is largely self-inflicted, so the ability to manage stress more effectively comes from managing oneself". -Michael Hrtherington.

 In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an inevitable part of life for many people, especially, students. Whether it's due to work pressures, personal challenges, or societal expectations, stress can take a toll on both our physical and mental health. 

Student life is not easy but they have to cope with it. So why not live with hope and faith? Students are most vulnerable in their life but they are also smart and adaptable.

However, by implementing effective stress management techniques, students can minimize the negative impacts of stress and improve their overall well-being.

What is stress? 

Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. (WHO- World Health Organisation).

In this post, I will explore 50 practical strategies to help you better manage stress and lead a happier, healthier life.

1. Practice Deep Breathing: Engage in deep breathing exercises to activate the body's relaxation response and reduce stress levels. Most of the time we humans never pay attention to our breathing. Breathing exercises help you to relax and be at peace.

2. Mindfulness Meditation: Dedicate time each day to mindfulness meditation, focusing on the present moment without judgment. There is no point in dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. The present is a gift everyone should enjoy that is why it's called PRESENT.

3. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Learn and practice progressive muscle relaxation techniques to release tension and promote relaxation throughout the body. Relaxation has become an essential part of life to live happily and healthily.

4. Practising Yoga: Incorporate yoga into your routine to enhance flexibility, balance, and mental clarity while reducing stress. You can join yoga classes or even these days online classes are conducted by yoga experts.

5. Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity such as walking, running, or dancing to boost endorphins and alleviate stress.

6. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall well-being and stress management. As far as possible have home-made food. Eat less fried and junk food.

7. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Reduce consumption of stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, as they can exacerbate stress and anxiety. Nowadays in the name of social drinking, even young people have started drinking alcohol. This may lead to an addiction. 

8. Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to rejuvenate the body and mind, reducing stress levels. This also is a reason for concern. Many youngsters think that it's okay to sleep for up to 4 hours. 

They give an example of Shah Rukh Khan. Sleep is a very important part of our lives. Deprivation of sleep may lead to many unwanted diseases.

9. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries with work, relationships, and technology to prevent overwhelm and protect your mental health. Everything should be within a limit. When you cross the limits, then you start having unnecessary stress.

10. Practice Time Management: Use effective time management techniques such as prioritization and delegation to reduce stress-related deadlines and responsibilities. If you manage your time effectively and efficiently, half the battle is won because you have no stress level.

Related post-12 ways to manage time efficiently and effectively.

11. Cultivate an attitude of Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal and regularly write down things you're thankful for to shift your focus towards positivity and reduce stress. It's always better to be thankful for things you have instead of things you do not have.

Related post The powerful benefits of showing gratitude for students.

12. Connect with Loved Ones: Maintain strong social connections with friends and family members for emotional support and stress relief. Family and friends will stay with you through thick and thin.

13. Seek Professional Help: Don't hesitate to contact a therapist or counsellor for support in managing stress and improving mental health. It's not shame or stigma to seek help when needed.

14. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks to prevent feeling overwhelmed and reduce stress. Goals should be SMART. S-specific, M-measurable, A-achievable or attainable, R- realistic, t-time-bound.

15. Practice Assertiveness: Learn to communicate your needs and preferences assertively to reduce stress from conflicts and misunderstandings. Be open about your demand instead of dilly-dallying.

16. Engage in Creative Activities: Explore creative outlets such as painting, writing, or playing music to express yourself and alleviate stress. They are hobbies. Hobbies are huge stress busters.

17. Spend Time in Nature: Take regular breaks to immerse yourself in nature, which can have a calming and rejuvenating effect on the mind and body.

18. Laugh Often: Incorporate humour into your life by watching comedy shows, sharing jokes with friends, or engaging in playful activities to reduce stress. "Laughter is the best medicine" is an old saying. Laugh away your pain and stress.

19. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and compassionate towards yourself, especially during stress and difficulty. It's very important to believe in yourself and love yourself unconditionally. You are the most important person in your life. Do not be over-critical of yourself.

20. Learn to Say No: Set boundaries and prioritize your own needs by saying no to activities or commitments that add unnecessary stress to your life. Some people give importance to others over their own needs but this can be detrimental to their confidence.

21. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations to build resilience and reduce stress. Focus on your growth instead of paying attention to what is going on in others' lives.

22. Limit Exposure to Stressful Media: Reduce consumption of news or social media that may contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. In fact, social media is a big detrimental to your self-confidence.

23. Practice Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your eating habits and savour each bite, practising mindful eating to reduce stress and promote digestion. Never watch TV or phone while eating because that way you can never relish the taste of the food you are eating.

24. Volunteer or Help Others: Engage in acts of kindness and altruism by volunteering or helping others, which can promote a sense of purpose and reduce stress. Some so many people really need just kind words. You can be their cheerleader.

25. Practice Forgiveness: Let go of resentment and practice forgiveness towards yourself and others to release the emotional burden and reduce stress.

26. Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Wind down before bed with calming activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practising relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality and reduce stress.

27. Learn Stress Management Techniques: Educate yourself about stress management techniques through books, online resources, or workshops to build your coping skills.

28. Practice Time for Reflection: Set aside time each day for self-reflection and introspection to gain insight into your thoughts and emotions, reducing stress and promoting self-awareness.

29. Engage in Aromatherapy: Use essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, or peppermint to create a calming atmosphere and reduce stress levels.

30. Practice Visualization: Visualize peaceful and serene scenes in your mind, such as a beach or forest, to induce relaxation and reduce stress.

31. Set Aside Relaxation Time: Schedule regular relaxation breaks throughout the day to recharge and reduce stress levels. Remember "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy".

32. Practice Grounding Techniques: Use grounding techniques such as focusing on your senses or connecting with the present moment to reduce stress and anxiety.

33. Practice Tai Chi or Qi Gong: Engage in gentle martial arts practices like Tai Chi or Qi Gong to promote relaxation, balance, and stress reduction.

34. Listen to Music: Listen to soothing music or nature sounds to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. According to unr.edu- Upbeat music can make you feel more optimistic and positive about life. A slower tempo can quiet your mind and relax your muscles, making you feel soothed while releasing the stress of the day.

35. Practice Guided Imagery: Use guided imagery recordings or apps to guide you through visualizations that promote relaxation and stress reduction.

36. Take Regular Breaks: Avoid overworking yourself by taking regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Always remember that you have a life outside your work. You should spend it with your loved ones. It is a huge stress reliever.

37. Declutter Your Environment: Create a clutter-free and organized environment to promote a sense of calm and reduce stress. Your home should be inviting. Keep it neat, clean, and tidy. A clutter-free home is like a temple.

38. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life, reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being. You can be grateful for every help that is given to you. A small thank you note spreads a huge smile on the receiver's face.

39. Establish a Morning Routine: Start your day with a structured morning routine that includes activities such as exercise, meditation, or journaling to set a positive tone for the day and reduce stress.

40. Learn Stress Reduction Techniques: Explore various stress reduction techniques such as biofeedback, acupuncture, or massage therapy to find what works best for you.

41. Practice Positive Visualization: Visualize successful outcomes and positive experiences to reduce stress and build confidence in your abilities.

42. Create a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who uplift you and reduce stress levels.

43. Practice Emotional Regulation: Learn to identify and regulate your emotions effectively to reduce stress and improve overall emotional well-being.

44. Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing techniques to activate the body's relaxation response and reduce stress levels.

45. Be positive: Life is full of ups and downs. But it doesn't mean that we have to live a monotonous life with no laughter or joy. Learn to see some good in every situation and every person. Everyone is good with their own problems and stress.

46. Practice Mindful Walking: Take mindful walks in nature, focusing on each step and the sensations in your body to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

47. Practice Journaling: Keep a journal to express your thoughts and feelings, reducing stress and promoting self-awareness. You are free to express your feelings- negative or positive- it's your small world full of yourself.

48. Practice Positive Affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations to yourself regularly to boost self-confidence and reduce stress.

49. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities such as taking baths, getting massages, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

50. Seek Professional Help: If stress becomes overwhelming or unmanageable, seek support from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and support.

Conclusion: 

You don't need to implement all the techniques in one go. Start slow and slowly but surely try to implement for a stress-free life.

Stress is a common experience in today's fast-paced world, but it doesn't have to control your life. By implementing the strategies outlined in this list post, you can reduce the stress level. 

Sometimes life will kick you around, but sooner or later, you realize you are not just a survivor. You are a warrior and you are stronger than anything life throws your way.

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The powerful benefits of showing gratitude for students.

 "Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance". -Eckhart Tolle

Gratitude is a potent force that can significantly impact the lives of students. 

Cultivating a sense of gratitude not only enhances mental well-being but also fosters positive relationships and improves academic performance. 

Benefits for students can include enhanced cognitive development, increased critical thinking skills, and improved problem-solving abilities.

The benefits of being thankful for what you have, go beyond academic achievements. It makes students well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate various aspects of life effectively.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding the effects of gratitude on well-being, academic performance, and character-building among students.

Let us now see how one can cultivate an attitude of gratitude in students and its benefits.

1. Understanding gratitude.

To comprehend the significance of gratitude in students' lives, it is essential to define and explore its underlying mechanism. 

Gratitude is more than just saying 'thank you", it involves acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of one's life, experiences, and relationships.

Research suggests that gratitude is associated with increased levels of happiness, improved mental health, and greater resilience to stress, and adversity.

2. Gratitude makes students more optimistic.

In the chaos of noise and tough competition, it's very difficult to keep serenity. Showing thankfulness for everything and everyone keeps you calm, relaxed and happy.

The relationship between thankfulness and optimism is unsurprising, especially since feeling more grateful directly increases feelings of positivity and optimism.

Every student needs to learn that to be calm and positive, you must keep a good relationship with your peer group. Start with a "Thank you" note for their help.

3. Gratitude increases well-being.

Gratitude has been linked to numerous positive outcomes related to students' health. Studies have shown that practising gratitude can lead to reduced levels of anxiety and depression.

It enhances overall life satisfaction and improves emotional regulation skills. By fostering a sense of appreciation for the present moment and encouraging students to focus on the positivities in their lives.

Teachers can help create a supportive and nurturing environment conducive to students' mental and emotional health.

4. Gratitude increases focus.

It's easy to focus if you are grateful. You will use less energy worrying about trivial things and instead understand how to finish the tasks at hand first.

You will not get irritated or agitated unnecessarily and concentrate on completing the work. This leads to a calm and relaxed state of mind and more work to be done.

5. Gratitude increases the academic performance.

In addition to its effect on health, gratitude has also been shown to correlate with academic success. 

Research indicates that grateful students tend to have higher levels of motivation, engagement and perseverance in their academic pursuits.

By fostering a positive and optimistic mindset, gratitude can enhance students' learning experiences, leading to improved academic performance and achievement.

6. Gratitude provides higher self-esteem.

As you show your gratitude, you start to understand that your buddy is investing time in you because they think highly of you.

According to healthmatters,nyp.org- Gratitude improves one's outlook on life. Appreciating what you have can make you more optimistic and satisfied and experience less frustration, envy, and regret.

It also tends to result in increased self-esteem and self-confidence.

7. Gratitude develops good character.

Beyond its effects on health and academic success, gratitude plays a crucial role in shaping students' character and moral development.

By encouraging students to express gratitude towards others and recognise the contributions of those around them. 

Teachers can instil important values such as empathy, kindness, and compassion. grateful individualsare more likely to engage in prosocial behaviour and form meaningful connections with others.

This contributes to the development of a positive school culture and community.

8. Gratitude strengthens positive emotions.

Having gratitude in yourself may help you to focus on the positive things in life and elevate your emotions.

Studies show that if you practice gratitude regularly for at least two to eight weeks, you will likely experience increased positive emotions, including interest, excitement, joy, happiness, and pride.

9. Gratitude provides better sleep.

It's proved that a higher level of thankfulness is associated in several studies with better sleep and fewer sleep disturbances.

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of human life. Depriving sleep can lead to many physical, mental and emotional health problems. 

A sufficient sleep pattern can make you healthy.  Being grateful and giving thanks gives you a relaxed and kind mind.

10. Gratitude improves your career opportunities.

You ought to focus more on thankfulness as it may enhance professional opportunities and strengthen your ability to make decisions.

In the landscape of personal growth, one underestimates the role of showing gratitude. Saying thanks to people even for a small help may seem trivial but its effects can reverberate throughout your professional journey.

Showing gratitude strengthens connections, and this may help in more job opportunities.

Conclusion 

The power of showing gratitude in students' lives cannot be overstated. From enhancing well-being and academic success to fostering character development and positive relationships, showing gratitude helps in many ways.

Gratitude has far-reaching benefits that can positively impact students' lives in profound ways. By prioritizing, gratitude cultivation in school settings and providing.

 

 

 

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How to Raise Your Child into a Positive Thinker?

 

"Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you will start having positive results". -Willie Nelson

A small story to start with.

 Raj returned home and quickly inquired about it.."Hey, what happened? Driver told me that Myra cried".

His wife Meera said, "Aha! Nothing to worry Raj. She is fine". Raj took his daughter in his lap and asked, " What you mean by nothing Meera? Why did she cry so much in the first place?"

Meera looked at Raj and said, "She was perfectly fine till we were in hospital, but". "But?" Raj interrupted impatiently.

Meera looked at her daughter and said, "The moment when the doctor gave me an injection, I shouted and she started hitting the doctor and started crying".

Raj heard those words and asked, "Oh! She might have got afraid of that injection". Meera corrected him, by saying, "No Raj, she cried because I cried".

That moment Raj looked at his daughter and kissed her on the cheek. Because, Without saying a word, his daughter expressed her love for her mother.

Kids may not think differently, but they certainly think innocently.

As a parent, it's heart-wrenching to see your child fall into the trap of negative thinking. It's challenging to develop a positive attitude in your child. 

Some children wallow in feelings like self-doubt, sadness, anger and unhappiness. Unfortunately, science says that it's natural for people to move on negative thoughts than on positive thoughts, more so in children. 

Today's children/students face many challenges in their school life. Students go through shame, body shaming, bullying, doubt, and fear, which in turn, produces stress chemicals in the brain. 

Related Post- It's not easy being a student.

Because of these things, children may go into a shell or become introverted. But all is not lost!

Parents and teachers have to work towards developing their child/children into positive thinkers.

 There is plenty that can be done to help your child develop a more positive attitude and an optimistic approach towards life. You can instil in them confidence, internal motivation, and a can-do attitude.

Are negative thoughts bad?

Actually, there are no "bad" emotions. Positive and negative emotions play a vital role in a human's life. They are valuable in how one processes the world around them.

For example, sadness or unhappiness can help you find ways to find happiness and you will not be guilty or shame for your negative emotions.

Danish Psychologist Svend Brinkmann, explains that the pressure to think positive and be constantly cheerful has turned happiness into a duty and a burden.

Recent psychological research indicates that emotional avoidance is one of the main causes of many psychological issues. 

So, instead of pressurizing children to avoid or dismiss negative emotions, tackle them hands-on. 

What should you do instead?

Teaching children how to deal with negative emotions and turn them into healthy options is the correct way to instil a positive attitude.

According to Positive Psychology researcher, Barbara Fredrickson, positive thinking is important because it broadens your sense of possibility and opens up your mind, allowing you to build new skills, positive thinking, and building resilience and patience.

Neurobiologist Richard Davidson of the University of Wisconsin explains that the brain is "plastic" and can be trained to be more emotionally resilient and to respond to certain emotions in a healthier manner.

                                 Ways to make your child a positive thinkers.

1. Be a positive role model.

Children always learn by example, so parents and teachers need to embody positive thinking.

You have to demonstrate a constructive attitude toward challenges and setbacks. Share your own stories of struggle and challenges and how boldly you overcame them.

You should highlight the importance of resilience, patience, optimism and a never-say-die attitude. 

When children observe and witness positivity in their parents and teachers, they become fearless to face setbacks in life.

2. Promote self-compassion.

Parents and teachers have to mistakes children/students that making mistakes is part of life. If you do not make any mistakes then you will not learn anything. 

Instil in them that elf-compassion is very important to stay motivated. Make them understand that no one is perfect. 

It's very important to teach them that they are very important in their life and treat themselves with care, self-love, kindness, and forgiveness.

This will foster a positive attitude in them.

3. Set realistic goals.

While setting goals for your children, keep in mind to set achievable, measurable, and smart goals.

Break down large goals into small chunks. This will motivate them to accomplish more goals.

Do not forget to celebrate each win. This will reinforce the idea that their efforts are counted. This helps them in developing a sense of achievement and a positive outlook on their abilities.

4. Praise the efforts.

Focus on praising your child's every small win. Do not see only the accomplishment but behind that hard work should be appreciated. This will help them develop a growth mindset.

Every child wants to shine in his studies and works towards it. Parents and teachers should motivate and encourage every effort they make.

It boosts their morale and confidence.

5. Teach them to practice an attitude of gratitude.

A good culture and good behaviour start at home. Children should be moulded into a good human being. 

Encourage your child/children to be grateful for the things they have and not crib about the things they do not have.

Teach them that complaining about things they do not have will bring unnecessary stress. 

6. Encourage resilience.

Actually, this quality should be inculcated in children from a very young age. They should be taught that mistakes are part of life and they should not get dejected and feel rejected.

The most important aspect is facing the challenges of life without getting sad or unhappy and trying to bounce back. 

Teach them that setbacks, failures and mistakes are opportunities for their growth. This will encourage them to be optimistic and positive.

7. Foster optimism.

A student's life is not easy but it is wonderful with beautiful memories. Teach them to reframe negative thoughts with positive ones. 

Focusing on solutions instead of problems can relieve them from unwanted worries and tension. Encourage critical thinking and creative ways to solve their problems.

8. Create a positive environment.

Every child must grow up with positive people. Encourage them to be with people who encourage them to do better in every aspect of their lives.

Surround your child with positive influencers. Let them read books, media or social interactions.

9. Encourage positive self-talk.

Teach your child to replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and constructive thoughts.

When faced with uncertainty and challenges, children have feelings of doubt and even negative self-talk. This is a very natural and obvious reaction.

In this situation, parents can instil developing a positive mindset and tell the benefits of positive self-talk. Positive self-talk can build resilience, push children to seek out things they are good at and provide courage to go after their dreams and goals.

They will identify their strengths and work on their weaknesses.

10. Be patient and supportive.

Any good thing takes time so be patient. There is no point in rushing things. Children may take time to learn things but as long as they have your support they will be encouraged.

Practising positive thinking in children may be a transformative process that nurtures their emotional well-being as well.

Conclusion.

Positive thinking brings stronger problem-solving and decision-making skills in children. By promoting positive thinking in children/students, parents and teahers can help them achieve their goals and develop a lifelong love for learning.

A positive attitude helps children relax, remember, focus, and absorb information as they learn. They welcome this new experience and recognize many different kinds of learning opportunities.

So, parents and teachers, slowly but surely instil a positive attitude in children/students to make them secure human beings.

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11 tips to Make Studying Less Boring and More Interesing?

                               11 Tips to Make Studying Less Boring and More Interesting.

"It's hard to take the first step for study but once you take it, you will end up learning many things". -Unknown.

 Let us agree that most students find studying boring or less interesting. There may be various reasons from not liking the teachers, not liking the subjects and not feeling motivated enough to study.

There may be various reasons but the fact remains that studying is an essential part of everyone's life. Today because of many distractions, children find it boring to sit for studying.

But nothing is lost. Here are some easy tips that you can follow to make study hours interesting.

1. Make your studying interactive.

Use technology or interactive study aids to make your study sessions more engaging. Educational apps, online quizzes, or interactive learning platforms that turn studying into a more dynamic experience.

Create flashcards with questions on one side and answers on the other side. Quiz yourself periodically to keep the learning process active and interesting.

Find many ways to make your studies less boring and more interesting..

 2. Gamily your learning process.

Turn your study material into a game. Create challenges, set goals, and reward ypourself when you accomplish them. This could be a short break, a snack, or any other small treat.

If applicable, study with a friend or join a real-life study group. Friendly competitions or collaborative learning can add fun to the learning process.

3. Do not get too comfortable.

This will lead you to become complacent. If you are too comfortable in your studying then you might get bored, fall asleep or lose interest halfway.

Avoid lying down to study. This is the worst enemy you are creating that may make you lose interest in your studies.

Getting very comfortable while studying may defeat the purpose of your study sessions.

4. Mix up your topics.

If you want to keep your studies intact then instead of only one subject for a long time mx up the different subjects. It's natural to get bored studying one subject for a long time. 

For example make a timetable for 45 minutes for History, 45 minutes for science, 45 minutes for English and so on... 

This way you will be more interested in your studies. Another thing is leaving the favourite subject for last so that you have something to look forward.

5. Make the learning fun.

Other than your textbooks, you can make some material yourself to create an interest. For example flashcards.

You can even mix up the flashcards and find the answers. You will be more focused and automatically be interested because it's a fun way to learn things.

They are very engaging and interactive, which can boost your motivation level and you become more attentive.

6. Take notes.

I have observed many students do not believe in taking notes in the classroom. Writing down the notes gives you real clarity about what the topic is about and you are listening to the experts ( your teachers).

While reading a textbook also you can note down the important points and make the answers more fun. Try to write down everything you find hard because then you will have readymade notes to go through.

Writing down gives you more clarity on the topic and there is little chance of getting bored.

7. Try to avoid electronics while studying.

Today you can find even 6-year-old children have smartphones. If they keep this phone near them to study, then definitely study will become boring.

Smartphones and other electronic devices should be kept away while studying or used in such a way that they cover your study topics and make it fun to use them.

8. Choose the best time for your studies.

Choosing the time when you are awake and active for studying benefits you more. You should be in the mood to study otherwise you will feel bored.

If possible, select the same time every day. It becomes a habit and automatically you will find yourself taking time off from other activities and starting studies. 

When you take an interest in your studies, you are less likely to feel bored.

9. Try to study with like-minded students.

If you don't feel like studying alone, form a group and actively participate in discussions. This will increase your interest in the subjects and make you less likely to get bored.

Try to teach other students whatever you know. This way you also will get a revision and the other students will listen to you without any fear. They can clarify their doubts without any hesitation.

10. Change your environment.

Rotate study locations to avoid monotony. Whether it's a coffee shop (Yes people do find it interesting to study in a coffee shop), a library, or a different room at home.

 A change of scenery can refresh and rejuvenate your mind and you may feel energetic. Experiment with background music or ambient sounds. 

Some people find that a specific genre or instrumental music helps create a more enjoyable study atmosphere.

11. Connect with real-life or real-world applications.

Relate the material to real-life examples or applications. Understanding how what you are studying is relevant in the real world can make it more interesting and meaningful.

Consider the practical applications of memorizing the concepts you are learning. this can give you a sense of purpose and help you see the bigger picture beyond just memorizing facts.

Conclusion.

Everyone goes through mood swings and feels bored to study. But no one can constantly procrastinate or feel lazy to complete their day-to-day studies.

 You have to motivate yourself to take an active interest in your studying and try to learn to get good grades.

One thing everyone has to remember is that student life is full of challenges. You should be prepared to tackle them and face the challenges to come out shining.

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Ways to Reduce Screen Time For Students.

 

"Sometimes you have to disconnect to stay connected. Remember the old days when you had eye contact during a conversation? When everyone wasn't looking down at a device in their hands? We have become so focused on that tiny screen that we forget the big picture, the people right in front of us". - Regina Brett.

My neighbour a six-year-old boy, is so fond of mobile phones that he completely ignores his studies. If he is not given that phone, he becomes angry and irritated and starts throwing tantrums.

The result is he is happy only when the mobile phone is given. Now, the question is only children are to be blamed? Today parents are so busy building their careers that they do not have time for their children.

The children are either at the mercy of maids or grandparents who like to pamper their grandchildren. What should be done to create interest not only in studies but also in other constructive activities?

According to mayoclinic.org- Encourage unplugged, unstructured playtime. Create tech-free zones or times, such as during mealtime or at night a week. Discourage the use of media entertainment during homework. Set and enforce the daily or weekly screen time limits and curfew zones such as no exposure to devices or screens one hour before bedtime curfew zones.

Though, today the culture of screen time is increasing, there are many benefits to reducing screen time. When you curtail the screen timing, children start taking an interest in other productive activities, their health improves and their creativity gets a boost.

The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends these acceptable amounts of screen time limits.

* No screen time for children under 2.

* One hour per day for children 2 to 12.

* Two hours per day for teens and adults.

By constantly practising in other activities, students can slowly and surely reduce their screen time. Her teachers and parents play a crucial role.

Here are some ways you can reduce screen time considerably.

1. Be accountable.

The student should learn to be accountable for their actions. Parents should set goals that are not only attainable but also intentional. 

Stop watching any kind of device that your teachers and parents have set a time limit. have. You have to have self-control. And understand the benefits of keeping away from screen time.

Student have to learn to be responsible and accountable for their own benefits. 

2. Be realistic.

Parents should set a realistic time lits for watching TV. otherwise, children may get frustrated and rebel. First start with 0 minutes curb then slowly increase the time. 

Make students understand the importance of extracurricular activities, playing outside, and healthy habits. Do not make children go through rigorous punishment. This will actually make them rebel.

Punishment is never the solution to student behaviour. Lovingly, caringly and affectionately make them understand the repercussions of long-time screen watching.

3. Be engaged.

Make children engaged in some constructive but fun and enjoyable activities. These children do not have a place to play so they get bored and their best companion is their mobile phone.

Here, parent's active participation is essential. They must keep children happy mentally, physically and emotionally. 

According to oakridge.com - Redirect their focus by engaging them in activity-based learning. Hands-on projects, science experiments, arts and crafts, and puzzles can be effective tools to keep them occupied in understanding the various subjects.

4. Put devices away.

Teachers and parents should take away their phones when children sit for studying. Even when you fix time to browse the phones, you have to keep an eye on to see what the children are watching.

As far as possible phones should be banned inside the school. We have to accept that these days, students are extremely tech-savvy. But with that, they have to be taught the cons of too much screen time.

You can put away the devices in many ways. Keeping them productively engaged, creating a positive device-free classroom, and indulging in some interesting games.

5. Create a phone-free one at home.

At home also parents should discourage the use of phones as far as possible. The dangers of too much screen time may divert attention from studies.

Make sure to make a phone-free zone like kitchen, bedroom, and car. Try to listen to music, reflect on the day or meditate when commuting instead of using the phone.

Anyway, taking in the phone while driving is a punishable act. Teach your children there is a time and time limit of using the phone and be very strict about it.

6. Get them outside. 

Encourage children to go out and play. Sitting in one place is not good for health. Parents and teachers play a crucial role in talking about the benefits of playing outside and being with nature.

Create a child-safe one and be with them keeping an eye on them for their safety. Make them understand that playing outside gives them a chance to show their adventurous nature and face challenges.

They get a healthy dose of vitamin D from the sun's rays.

7. Schedule time.

If the child throws tantrums for using a phone, then fix a time for using the phone and be very diligent that they stick to the time.

See to it that it doesn't become an addiction. Today even a toddler uses phones or TV to watch rhymes instead of them reciting themselves. 

This trend is becoming viral and patent and teachers have to curb this habit of using phones for every little thing by students. They are not interested in reading books or going to libraries to browse books.

So it becomes very important that parents make a strict time schedule for browsing phones or watching TV.

8. Get involved in extracurricular activities.

Encourage children to participate in extracurricular activities in school. Teach them the benefits of taking part in various activities. 

It boosts their self-confidence, they make new friends or strengthen their already existing friendships. Participating in various activities makes them curious, knowledgeable and smart.

Participating in extracurricular activities students build teamwork, their communication skills improve, and they cultivate a sense of belonging to their school and friends.

Students who participate actively in extracurricular activities show improvement in their academic performance, learn time management, learn essential life skills, and enhance their personal growth and development. 

9. Don't use screen time as a reward.

New research says that parents who reward their children's good behaviour with extra screen time can expect them to spend even more time online. This is not the best idea.

Researchers have also found that children, whose parents dole out screen time as a reward or revoke punishment, spend more time on a smartphone, tablet, computer or in front of the TV than whose parents don't.

Never tempt children to view screen time as a reward. It may backfire.

10. Delete unnecessary apps.

Actually, children are smarter today. By the age of 10, they know all about which apps to download and watch.

This is very dangerous. Parents have to watch over and delete unnecessary apps. It's okay to install apps that teach children some constructive and productive games.

Even some play apps also can be installed that can help children to use their brains like puzzles and other types. But otherwise, remove the apps that allow no purpose.

11. Take regular breaks.

Continuous studying gives you tiredness and atigue. It's necessary to take active breaks in between studies. Every 50-60 minutes, take a 5-10 minutes break.

For your long-term physical, mental and emotional health and achieving goals, you need a productive break..

Use these breaks for a short brisk walk around the building or do some stretching exercises that energise and rejuvenate your mind and body.

There are many disadvantages of continuous screen time. 

Students lose their focus and will not be able to concentrate on their studies. There is a risk of becoming obese becuase when they start watching screens they forget the time.

They completely stop socializing and thus have no friends. Their sleep pattern changes and sometimes even small children spend sleepless nights.

The studies show that they become more violent, and face behaviour problems.

Nothing is lost. Parents have to take time to be with their children guiding them and making them understand the bad effects of constantly watching mobile or TV.

"Children will not remember you for the material things you provided, but or the feeling that you cherished them". - Richard L. Evans.

Conclusion.

Rain or shine, students need not spend time watching TV or mobile. There are many alternatives to that. Parents and teachers have to do researh and find ways to control screen timings.

Today's children have become technology experts and screen time has become a part and parcel of our day-to-day life. Screen time has to be curbed for student's own well-being.

(How do you control the screen time of your children. Please write in the comment box).