Ways to Manage Technology

Open Communication

• Talk with your child about online safety and privacy.

• Urge them to talk about their concerns.

• Help them see and report cyberbullying.

• Set rules about spending money online and talk about the results of in-app purchases.

Understanding Permanency Online

• Teach that once something is online, it’s hard to remove it.

• Urge children to think carefully before sharing or posting things.

• Show examples of how online posts can stay around forever.

• Teach them about privacy settings to control who can see their posts.

Manage Children’s Curiosity

• Spend time with your children during screen time and teach them to make safe choices.

• Show them apps, websites, and games that are both fun and educational.

• Help your children think critically about online content. Show them how to deal with unfamiliar sites or apps.

Healthy Habits and Safety

• Take regular breaks when using devices.

• Encourage children to ask questions and talk to you if they see something upsetting.

• Take regular breaks to prevent eye strain and promote physical activity.

• Set guidelines about interacting with strangers online.

Screen Time Limits

• Set clear daily limits for screen time on devices.

• Make areas of your house device-free zones (e.g., bedrooms, dining tables).

• Create screen-free times, such as during family meals or before bedtime.

Age-Appropriate Content

• Be aware of the content your child sees online. Use parental controls and filters to limit unfit material.

• Choose apps, games, and websites.

• Use devices designed for children. Use parental controls.

Model Healthy Behavior

• Show your child how to balance screen time with other activities.

• Be aware of your own smartphone use around children.

• Explore educational apps and websites together. Favor quality content over quantity.

Educate About Cyberbullying and Online Etiquette

• Talk about treating others kindly online.

• Teach your child about cyberbullying and how to respond to it.

• Discuss respectful communication and the impact of bullying.

Mindful App Selection

• Ensure the app matches your child’s age. Check ratings and reviews.

• Look for apps with educational value or positive content that promotes learning and creativity.

• Choose apps that include user privacy and have strong safety features.

• Avoid apps with too many ads or in-app purchases to prevent accidental spending and exposure to unwanted content.