In modern times, screens are everywhere. We use our phones, tablets, and computers for everything. While I feel that social person-to-person interactions are necessary for human development, I know from firsthand experience that communication on a screen can be beneficial for some people.
When I was six years old and in the first grade, the school called my parents into a meeting. They said that they were just pushing me along through school because of my dyslexia and ADHD. I was at the very bottom of my class. My peers were blowing by me at a speed that made me despise going to school. They recommended that if my parents were to get me a computer to use for schoolwork, I might be able to do better. In the early 1990’s for a facility maintenance man and nurse, that was a tall order. Especially since I was the youngest of five kids. To my parents’ credit, they found a way to make it happen. I know it wasn’t easy, but we got a computer for the family to use. Of course, I was the only one that knew anything about it since I was learning about it twice a week in computer lab for an hour. In no time flat, I took to that computer, and by the next progress report at school, I had gone from the bottom of my class to above my average peers. Later, when smart tablets and smartphones became a thing, I was an early adopter. Yes, I used the systems for games, but most of all, I developed a process of organization that allowed me to use my disabilities to my advantage.
I don’t share this story to brag. It’s an example of how technology can, for some people with learning disabilities, conquer their disability. I worked in the information technology sector for most of my life, and I know that if it wasn’t for the technology that I used as tools, I would’ve never been able to be a successful member of society.
Today, with the bombardment of distractions that we face, we need to put in place tools to filter the noise. I use Apple’s focus modes for this feature, and I require myself to limit the time that I spend doomscrolling social media. It takes willpower and practice. Our children need to be taught these rules. They need to be educated about the dangers of wasting life scrolling a screen and not interacting with their fellow human beings. This process is slow. Each kid is different. Some will need the technical tools that are available to them sooner than others. Either way, it’s something that they should be eased into.
In June 2026 Apple Inc. announced their latest operating system for their ecosystem. Part of this year’s update is more enhancements to parental controls. They worked with leading experts in education and child development to establish these new tools. They worked with these aforementioned experts to set up a digital roadmap of recommendations. I recommend that all parents at least take a look at it. Click here to view the website.
When did you start using technology, and how has that affected your life?
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