Online Schooling: A Changing Landscape for Childhood Education The echoes of Madonna's nostalgic song, "This used to be my playground," resonate with many adults, serving as a reminder of their cherished school days. For children and adults alike, the best part of their schooling years has always been the friendships nurtured within its walls. Most learning occurred beyond the confines of the curriculum, in the corridors, the canteen, the playground, on the bus, during practice for celebrations, and in house-wise competitions. However, the transition to online schooling has left many pondering the meaning of education itself. School children, who once yearned for weekends, rain holidays, or long vacations, are now yearning for the simple joy of being back in the physical school environment. If this trend of online schooling persists, there is a real risk of altering the neurological makeup of all children, especially preschoolers. It could change the way they interact, learn, and develop. In time, diagnostic manuals like the DSM may introduce new labels and categories, citing genetics as the cause and diverting attention from environmental factors. The question that arises is, who stands to benefit from this transformation? Unfortunately, it's not the children. The very "digital drug" that children were warned to avoid is now being prescribed by professionals and celebrated by parents—online schooling. As we navigate these uncharted waters, it's crucial to consider the long-term effects and ensure that the well-being of our children remains at the forefront of educational decisions.
