Covid-19 is changing education and revealing a new concern for parents. Zoom Fatigue, Technostress, or digital stress has become a trending phrase since early March popping up on social media and Google searches.
Dr. Chinwe Williams, founder and owner of Meaningful Solutions Counseling and Consulting says, “Parents should look out for sore muscles, anxiety, stiff shoulders, neck pain, and eye strain.”
Dr. Williams says parents can prevent Zoom fatigue in a few simple steps. She recommends walking away. However, walking away is not only going on a walk. It also includes walking away from your device completely. If you are going for a walk, then disconnect from your device and connect to nature. According to Dr. Williams, new research indicated when we still have access to our devices it is not as effective or restorative as it would be if you left your device at home and listened to nature.
Parents should consider designating a specific room and specific times where technology and screen time is encouraged but also having rooms and times where screens are not allowed and done for the day.
Children are sitting down and staring at a screen for 6+ hours, so getting exercise is important. With the pandemic still being present and the future being unknown it would be a great idea to let your children get outside, go on a socially distanced bike ride with their friends or siblings, and overall just have recess again.
Finally, parents are encouraged to pay attention to. While it may be easy to look the other way when our children say they’re tired and their bodies hurt, we have all heard it, myself included. However, it is more important than ever to talk to our kids and see how they’re feeling physically and mentally.
You can check out my interview with Dr. Chinwe Williams here. Please make sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel as we will continue to interview experts to support families during this time. Make sure to connect with Dr. Williams via Instagram: @dr.chinwewilliams or website www.meaningulsolutionscounseling.com