Why Age-Based Content Classification Matters
Under the new Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) system, the Universal Adult (UA) classification is divided into three subcategories: UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+. A one-size-fits-all grade is insufficient for the diverse maturity levels of children at different ages, as this nuanced approach recognises. It also acknowledges the tremendous amount of material that kids are exposed to these days, both online and in movie theatres.
In order to protect kids from information that could be unsuitable for their developmental stage, age-based categorisation is essential. It is well known that early exposure to violent, sexual, or otherwise delicate material can have a negative effect on children's mental and emotional development. The CBFC is enabling parents to make knowledgeable judgements about what is appropriate for their children to watch by offering these thorough certifications.
The Role of Digital Parenting
The term "digital parenting" describes how parents monitor and direct their kids' use of media online. As the distinctions between offline and online media become increasingly hazy, film certification now includes both what children watch in theatres and what they download at home.
Digital parents may find the new CBFC ratings to be a useful tool. Parents may match their children's watching preferences to their values and maturity levels by understanding what these age-based categories entail. This lowers the possibility of unsuitable information getting through and gives parents more control over what their kids are exposed to.
Challenges in the Digital Age
Digital parenting is still difficult in spite of these initiatives. Today's kids may get information from a variety of sources, including foreign streaming services that do not meet Indian certification requirements, and they are frequently more tech-savvy than their parents.
Furthermore, youngsters may be encouraged to investigate material that is above their age range by curiosity and peer pressure. Certifications are helpful, but they are not infallible. Parents' active participation is therefore still crucial, ranging from co-viewing films to talking about issues and establishing ground rules for media use.
Steps for Effective Digital Parenting
Parents may supplement the CBFC's new ratings by doing the following doable actions:
- Become knowledgeable about ratings: Learn what UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+ signify.
- Employ parental controls: Make advantage of the parental control options available on digital devices and streaming services.
- Communicate openly with your kids by discussing what they see and the effects it has on them.
- Co-view and discuss: Whenever feasible, watch films with others and engage in candid conversations about the themes and takeaways.
- Encourage kids to participate in offline activities that foster socialisation and learning in order to strike a balance between digital and real-world activities.