Technology is ever-present in today’s society and continues to delve into more daily tasks and routines. Digital technology and developing minds seemingly go hand in hand in recent studies, which might lead some parents wondering how to find the right balance for them and their little ones.
Here are some tips and advice to consider that can help you find the right balance to support your child’s development and progress.
Tips for Parenting in the Age of Digital Technology
Every household approaches technology in a different way, some allowing more screen time, while others might eliminate it altogether. To help you find the right balance for yourself.
Here are some tips to reflect on:
- Establish open and honest communication: Communication is important and having an open-minded and honest conversation about social media use, technology use, and other digital technologies can make for more meaningful discussions. It can also give you the opportunity to explain the why behind your choices around digital technology rules, which can result in fewer tears and arguments surrounding technology.
- Have screen-free activities: Books, coloring, toys, and crafts are all great home activities that not only offer an alternative to technology but can also foster the development of other skill sets.
- Install security settings: Establishing parental controls and privacy settings can help keep your children safe when using technology devices. Having your child walk you through how they use the device can also help you pinpoint any signs of trouble and keep everyone safer when online.
- Optimize the experience: Using your screen time with intent can not only let your child enjoy the wonders of technology but can also help them further their own knowledge and skills in different areas. For example, if your child has an interest in animals and science, turning on an educational program discussing these topics can help them engage with the program versus mindlessly watching it.
- Create a schedule: If you’re someone who enjoys scheduling time and activities, creating a schedule surrounding technology use can provide more structure to your child’s day. It can also help to establish clear boundaries and create less stress surrounding technology time.
Get Involved with Clubs and Activities
There are also many avenues to explore outside of the house to better navigate technology-free times. Walk to the library, explore the local parks, or attend a community festival. These are all great ways to enrich your technology-free times and can help you build even stronger bonds with your child. Other ideas include getting involved with clubs and activities where your child can explore their limits or learn new skills outside of a digital screen.
Technology time is something that is easy to get carried away with, and finding ways to monitor and regulate this time before it gets out of hand can make for a more stress-free experience. Finding other activities to do that involve independent play, learning new skills, relationship-building activities, and exploring new interests can provide you with that balance of allowing digital technology use without eliminating your or your child’s independent time.
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