Cristiano Ronaldo’s Parenting Philosophy: Balancing Technology and Education

In a revealing old interview, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo shared valuable parenting lessons about managing technology use for children. His approach highlights the importance of setting boundaries and promoting education over excessive screen time.
Ronaldo’s Approach to Technology
- Refusing a Phone: Ronaldo chose not to give his 11-year-old son a phone, expressing concerns about the potential for technology addiction. He wanted his son, Cristiano Jr., to understand that things aren’t easily obtained and that moderation is key.
- Ronaldo’s Statement: “My oldest child is going to be 12 years old soon and he asks me every time, ‘Daddy, can I have a phone, can I have a phone, can I have a phone.’ I say to him, ‘Cristiano, you have time.’”
- Moderation Over Obsession: Ronaldo believes in giving children access to technology, but with limitations. He emphasizes that while modern kids are technologically advanced, they should not become obsessed.
- Ronaldo’s Philosophy: “Give them but with a period of time, not give them all the time. I think that’s the main point here.”
- Education Over Technology: Ronaldo stresses that education is more valuable than immediate gratification from technology. He aims to teach his son that hard work and patience are important life lessons.
- Ronaldo’s Insight: “I want to transmit to my son the idea that it’s not easy getting anything he wants. Education is the best thing I could give him.”
The Impact of Mobile Phones on Kids
- Increasing Use: Mobile phones are becoming more common among children due to affordable devices, data plans, and the popularity of social media. While phones offer educational resources and connectivity, their excessive use can have negative effects.
- Positive Aspects: Mobile phones can foster learning, communication skills, and social connectivity. They provide access to educational tools and help kids stay in touch with friends and family.
- Negative Consequences: Overuse of mobile phones can lead to reduced physical activity, sleep disruption, and decreased academic performance. Additionally, constant exposure to social media may affect self-esteem and mental health due to cyberbullying and unrealistic comparisons.
Finding the Right Age for Mobile Phones
The appropriate age for giving a mobile phone to children depends on their maturity, need for communication, and ability to use the device responsibly. Generally, middle school age is a common time for introducing phones, but parents should set clear guidelines and monitor usage to ensure a balanced approach.
- Key Considerations:
- Maturity: Assess if the child can handle the responsibility of a mobile phone.
- Need: Determine if there is a genuine need for communication.
- Guidelines: Establish rules for usage to balance screen time with other activities.
Ronaldo’s perspective offers a thoughtful approach to parenting in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of moderation and education. By setting boundaries and promoting responsible technology use, parents can help their children navigate the challenges of the modern world while fostering their overall development.