New technologies and access to the Internet are part of your life and that of your children, who use them to learn, document, communicate, play and have fun. But this permanent connection can also generate distractions, steal time to study and other educational or leisure activities and, in some cases, even cause problems of addiction or dependency. We give you some tips to avoid these dangers and get a rational and responsible use of technologies at home.
FIVE AXES FOR GOOD TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION
1. Take the first steps together. It is important to accompany the child in the first approach to technology or the Internet. Establish that the computer or tablet is always in a common space of the house, navigate together when they need to find information and worry about being present when using any device to control how they behaves, interested in what they do, give advice and direct their use. In this way you will be developing a joint activity instead of contributing to the isolation that usually involves technological devices. In addition, you will establish a relationship with the child and the technology that will make it easier for them to come to you if you they any questions or problems on the Internet.
2. Establishes norms. As in any area of the child's life, in the use of technology and the Internet, the rules are fundamental and should be clear in advance. Decide when they can use the computer or tablet for leisure, how much time they can use them per day, weekdays or weekends, transmit these criteria to your child and explain that they should always ask permission beforehand. To implement these norms successfully, parents can use the iPhone parental control app such as FamilyTime that let parents manage their kids’ screen time digitally and remotely using their own device.
2. Establishes norms. As in any area of the child's life, in the use of technology and the Internet, the rules are fundamental and should be clear in advance. Decide when they can use the computer or tablet for leisure, how much time they can use them per day, weekdays or weekends, transmit these criteria to your child and explain that they should always ask permission beforehand. To implement these norms successfully, parents can use the iPhone parental control app such as FamilyTime that let parents manage their kids’ screen time digitally and remotely using their own device.
3. Explain the risks. You must be aware that the Internet is not like television, which is regulated, so the online content that your child can access is infinite and, in many cases, not suitable for their age. In addition, you they make mistakes such as revealing personal information, talking to strangers, uploading photographs, making purchases or payments... Give basic safety advice and let him see that he should come to you in case of any doubt or if he encounters a situation, image or person that makes them feel uncomfortable.
4. Create spaces and times of disconnection. It is not about prohibiting the use of devices or the Internet, but technological leisure has to be only part of the fun of the child or adolescent. Carry out activities in which they do not directly use technology, both inside and outside the home: traditional games or table games, field trips, family cooking, crafts, sports, reading, etc. In addition, you can set moments in the home where no one can use the computer, mobile or tablet; for example, while sitting at the table, at night, or during conversations with the family on the couch. With simple gestures like these you will avoid dependence or addiction problems.
