Every day we use technology as part of our lives. However, our constant use of technology is setting adults and children up for failure. In the past five years, we’ve seen a shift in the landscape of waiting rooms everywhere. When a mother went to the pediatrician, she was able to compare stories and talk to other mothers, while the children excitedly played together, happy to be meeting a new friend or catching up with a neighbor.
Now when the majority of people, including children, are in the waiting room, they have their faces in their phones, scrolling through social media, playing games, or watching videos, missing out on a great opportunity to meet someone or learn something new.
The best and exciting part of meeting new people is the possibility of new friendships. We never know the positive impact someone can have on our lives, and we will never know unless we are willing to say “Hello.” Remember, children watch and mimic the actions of the adults in their lives, so take a second and think about what you really want the next time you’re in a waiting room: to bury your head in the “imaginary” world in your phone or engage with the real people around you.