It’s no secret that technology is a bigger part of people’s lives, from a much younger age. Instead of fearing this development, here’s how to confidently manage your children and electronic activity.
It might feel like new and unprecedented waters to navigate. However, children have been exposed to technology for decades. Your child might have more access to tech and electronics than previous generations, but it is still possible to set traditional family values and boundaries in this regard.
Kids and technology.
Laptops, computers, phones, tablets and TVs are just some of the technologies your child will engage with from a young age. For the most part, this accessibility to information is largely beneficial for your child.
Today, children are able to develop important computer skills early on in life. The educational benefits of technology are also widespread, thanks to internet access. Children have even more learning and researching resources thanks to these modern day advancements.
While there are plenty of tech benefits, it is also natural for parents to feel concerned for the safety and wellbeing of their child. Too much screen time or unmonitored activity could lead to a host of issues, making it important for parents to set healthy boundaries.
How much time should a child spend using electronics?
Every family will have their own feelings about screen time habits. A standard recommendation for older children and teens is approximately 2 hours per day. Children under 5 years old should ideally spend no more than 1 hour per day in front of a TV or computer screen.
When and how should I limit my child’s tech use?
If you’ve noticed your child spending too much time in front of a screen or becoming reliant on their phone, it might be time to
consider setting limits. Another sign of problematic tech time is if you notice your child withdrawing socially or failing to engage in family conversation.
For the sake of your child’s physical and mental health, it is good to put boundaries in place. Here’s how:
● Incentivise screen time.
Make the use of tech as reward and not a given activity.
● Spend quality time with your child.
This is the easiest way to ensure that they don’t spend too much time engaging with technology instead.
● Encourage alternative uses for technologies.
Instead of endless hours of games or series, encourage your child to use their tech to pursue other interests. Technology can be a great way to learn how to paint or play an instrument. This way, screen time provides a purpose instead of a never-ending stream of mindless entertainment.
● Limit your young child’s exposure early on.
The earlier you introduce tech to your child, the earlier they will adopt these electronics into their daily life.
● Encourage other activities.
By motivating your child to engage in social activities, family outings or extracurriculars, they will have less time to spend behind a screen.
When it comes to the wellbeing of your child, technology is not something to be feared. Instead, understand different electronics, social media platforms or tech trends in order to better set family boundaries.
