Children rely too much on the technology, like computers, smart phones, video games for fun and entertainment. Playing simpler toys or playing outside with friends would be better for children’s development.

In current society, there is a great concern about children’s development. Some people argue that it is beneficial to children to use electronic devices for fun in daily life, such as using laptops, cellphones, and playing video games. However, other people believe that children should spend more time playing with toys and having outdoor activities with friends. From my perspective, children can reap more benefits from the latter option, and the reasons are stated in the following paragraphs. Admittedly, many experts find electronic products beneficial for children’s brain development. Many people nurture the belief that the colors and sounds on the screen can inspire children to imagine colorful pictures, which can effectively make them more creative. However, it should be noted that excessive electronic product viewing time may result in some severe problems in children. Studies have found that staring at the screen for hours can be detrimental to eyesight. Also, using cellphones and computers for entertainment is associated with sedentary behaviour, which may result in some physical problems, such as overweight and obesity. Thus, instead of allowing children to spend time on these devices, providing children chances to play in the real world is a better choice to develop their bodies and minds. First of all, playing with simple toys or staying outdoors can motivate children to be more physically active. Children who rely too much on technological gadgets do not have time to move their bodies, as they are very likely to stay in their chairs or couches for a prolonged period. However, when children are playing with simple toys, at least they need to move up and down. Moreover, there are more opportunities for children to run and stretch their bodies when they are playing outside. For example, being allowed to play with a Lego model after finishing homework at weekends, a child will voluntarily move to the desk and get himself fully involved in the model. While figuring out how to assemble those pieces, the child needs to move his arms or even the whole body. In this way, the child has raised his physical activity level compared to engaging in watching television or playing computer games. What’s more, when a child is playing basketball with peers after school, he will naturally jump, jog, or even run. Thus, outdoor activities can boost a child’s body fitness, which will lead to a healthier lifestyle and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity. Also, physical interaction with peers can positively affect children’s social development. Playing with toys or staying outside with friends, children will encounter many moments of sharing ideas with others. Children sometimes may argue about a certain problem. Though it can be hard for kids to learn how to deal with conflicts with others, this process can benefit themselves since they can practice communication skill and problem-solving ability. As a result, children will be able to develop their social circles and be better behaved while playing with toys or hanging out with friends outside. In contrast, a child who is addicted to electronic products has few opportunities to experience social interaction in the actual world, leaving him lacking normal social life and skills. For instance, kids who play basketball in the playground every day after school are likely to argue who should play as the leader player. With rounds of discussions, each kid actively lists his own opinion to persuade others. At the same time, they need to compromise to reach an agreement, which is a valuable experience for their growth. Whoever ends up as the leader player, all of these kids have learnt how to work as a team and how to interact appropriately with peers. In conclusion, children should devote more attention to simple toys and outdoor activities.