Cyber-wellness programmes could begin as early as pre-school
Cyber-wellness programmes could begin as early as pre-school, Minister of State for Information, Communications and the Arts revealed in Parliament on Monday.
Chan Chun Sing (File photo)
SINGAPORE: Cyber-wellness programmes could begin as early as pre-school, Minister of State for Information, Communications and the Arts revealed in Parliament on Monday.
He was replying to MP for Chua Chu Kang GRC Low Yen Ling's question on the effectiveness of the ministry's cyber-wellness programmes
Ms Low also asked whether the ministry plans to put cyber-wellness programmes in place to prevent preschoolers from getting addicted to video games.
Mr Chan said the Media Development Authority's cyber wellness website has been well-received, with close to 220,000 page views.
The information is also available in a parental guidebook which has been distributed at all schools and public events.
Mr Chan added that MDA may print the book in vernacular languages, or include more in-depth information, in future editions.
He said MDA is also working with schools and community self-help groups to conduct public workshops and talks for parents.
"We recognise that younger children are becoming increasingly exposed to activities and games on the Internet as parents use connected devices like smartphones and tablets as babysitting tools," Mr Chan said.
"MDA will continue to study changes in demographics and media consumption habits and work with various partners to extend and strengthen its outreach efforts as we work together with parents, teachers and the rest of the community to safeguard our children as they explore our changing media environment."
