Ranju Jasrotia
A recent visit to a local bank turned into an unexpected and reflective discussion with the bank manager, a woman who, like many working parents today, juggles the demands of her career and family life. When our conversation shifted to my profession as a teacher, she opened up about her experiences with her two young sons. Her older son, just over seven years old, had begun speaking later than usual—a concerning reality she attributed to an early introduction to mobile technology.
Living in a nuclear family, she often found herself working long hours, seldom returning home before 6 or 7 PM. Despite hiring a maid to care for her children, she realized that it could not replace the nurturing engagement that a mother provides. Over time, the lack of meaningful interaction led her son to communicate primarily through gestures. This alarming shift prompted them to seek help from a speech therapist, but the progress was agonizingly slow. It was only after her son’s school teacher became involved—taking the time to converse with him each evening—that they began to see substantial improvement.
The Detrimental Impact of Screen Time
The bank manager candidly reflected on the toll mobile phone use had taken on her son’s behavior. Aggression had become a regular feature in their household, manifesting in throwing objects, screams, and tears throughout the night. This troubling situation pushed her to the edge of considering leaving her job in an effort to find a better balance for her family. She expressed immense gratitude for the teacher who had stepped in to provide daily engagement for her son, exploring a range of topics to stimulate his cognitive development. In response to their challenges, they also enrolled him in swimming and drawing classes to nurture his growth.
This narrative underscores an increasingly prevalent issue: the pervasive impact of mobile phones and the internet on children. Not only are children facing risks of emotional isolation, but the mental health consequences are equally alarming. The physical implications are no less concerning, with children spending less time outdoors and missing out on vital sunlight exposure.
The Cost of Independence: Our Distrust in Joint Families
A deeper issue arises from our collective aversion to multi-generational living arrangements. While we eagerly pursue independence, this quest comes with an unquantified price. Many parents trust hired help more than their own family members, often dismissing the insights offered by grandparents or in-laws as outdated or unwelcome. This societal shift reflects a growing divide between seeking autonomy and recognizing the benefits of collaborative caregiving.
The Evolving Role of Educators
The changing dynamics of family life have placed significant burdens on teachers. Today, educators are increasingly expected to fill gaps that once were the province of parents or extended family members. Both parents often lack the time and energy to engage meaningfully with their children, which has transformed the role of teachers into one of a guide, mentor, and support system. In addition to academic instruction, they are now responsible for reinforcing values, manners, and social skills that children may not receive at home.
In recognition of this expanded role, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated that teachers undergo 50 hours of training. This training addresses various pedagogical approaches and equips educators with the skills needed to provide not just academic support but also essential emotional and mental health assistance to their students.
As we navigate these complexities in modern parenting and education, it becomes increasingly clear that each role—whether that of a parent, educator, or caregiver—intersects to form a supportive network for child development. The challenges are steep, but with awareness and action, we can foster healthier environments for our children.
The author is a teacher at Jodhamal Public School, Jammu.
