Navigating tech use for children: A guide for parents

Uncover a thorough guidebook for parents in the digital era, offering practical perspectives and tactics to achieve a harmonious balance between technology utilization and the welfare of children aged 6 to 12.

Team Newsable

First Published Aug 16, 2023, 5:18 PM IST | Last Updated Aug 16, 2023, 5:18 PM IST

In today's digital era, youngsters' exposure to technology is unavoidable. As a guardian, maintaining an balance between technology usage and well-being is vital. This manual offers practical hints and perspectives to assist guardians in guiding their youngsters' tech activities from ages 6 to 12.

1. Strive for Balance:

It's important to understand that every household utilizes technology differently based on their own rules and regulations. When it comes to finding a healthy balance, it's crucial to be discerning about when technology usage becomes excessive. For example, if children are refusing to engage in other activities, getting upset when they can't use screens, or experiencing negative effects on their sleep and social interactions, it's time to reevaluate. Lastly, keeping an eye on children's online activities is a key aspect of ensuring age-appropriate content and evaluating their interactions.

2. Be a Role Model:

Teaching children about mindful technology use involves demonstrating the importance of taking breaks and disconnecting. It's important to engage in offline activities together and enjoy outdoor fun without relying on screens. Creating time limits for both work-related tasks and family interactions, particularly during significant events like meals and outings, helps in maintaining a healthy balance between technology and personal connections. It's also important to employ technology responsibly by adhering to safety guidelines, such as refraining from texting while driving and avoiding excessive sharing on social media platforms. These practices not only ensure the well-being of individuals but also foster a safer and more respectful digital environment.

3. Create Tech a Family Connection:

As a parent, it's important to involve your children in establishing tech regulations and restrictions. This not only empowers them to learn how to self-manage, but it also helps them to understand the importance of responsible technology usage. Additionally, it's important to participate in your child's tech activities and jointly engage with them to ensure that they are viewing suitable material. Customizing your approach for each child based on their age, character, and requirements is also crucial. Remember, age categories are broad suggestions, so it's important to modify your approach as your child grows up. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your child is using technology in a safe and responsible manner.

4. Age-Specific Pointers: Babies Under 2:

It's important to limit screen time for infants, especially since their minds are developing so quickly during this phase. Instead, try to prioritize physical interactions and sensory experiences over time spent in front of screens. While technology can be helpful for shared experiences, it's important to emphasize alternative modes of engagement as well. By focusing on these types of interactions, you can help support your child's overall development and well-being.

5. Toddlers and Pre-K (2-5 Years):

As a parent, it's important to utilize technology in a way that brings our families closer together. One way to do this is by co-playing and co-watching with our kids, using premium apps and games that align with their hobbies and growth requirements. At the same time, we should also make sure to set up gadget-free moments and areas, such as during snack times or in sleeping areas, to promote more meaningful family engagement. By doing so, we can create a healthy and balanced approach to technology use that fosters closer bonds between us and our children.

6. Small Children (6-12 Years):

As a parent, it's important to ensure that your child is safe while using the internet. A great way to do this is to establish kid accounts with parental controls that are suitable for their age and level of responsibility. This will help prevent them from accessing inappropriate content and keep them safe online.

Technology can also be a powerful tool for stimulating your child's imagination and creativity. Interactive learning apps and educational games can help your child learn new things while having fun at the same time.

It's also crucial to educate your child about privacy and security, as well as critical thinking skills. This will help them understand how to protect themselves online and avoid falling victim to scams and other malicious activities.

Finally, as your child grows older, it's important to gradually give them more autonomy and hold them accountable for their actions. This will help them develop a sense of responsibility and prepare them for the challenges of adulthood.

7. Teens (13-18 Years):

As parents, it is important to set guidelines for our teenagers when it comes to phone and device usage. We need to strike a balance between strict surveillance and mentoring. We can start by educating them about online safety, confidentiality, and conscientious social media use. It is also crucial to keep an ongoing dialogue and periodically inspect their online actions to develop trust and ensure their safety. We can also encourage productive tech interests like programming or digital design. However, we need to be aware of signs of tech fixation, such as excessive screen time and substituting offline activities. By being vigilant and supportive, we can help our teenagers use technology in a healthy and responsible way.

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