Kids And Tech: Tips For Parents In The Digital Age

 

In today’s tech-oriented world, raising kids can seem a bit scary. From online bullying to all the online security threats, modern parents need to start teaching their kids how to approach technology safely. That said, not all dangers lurk online. In fact, if your kids spend too much time in front of a screen, it’s not only their vision that might get impaired. Their posture and overall health can potentially be compromised as well.

So, let’s see some useful tips that should help guide modern parents when trying to teach their kids how, when and to what extent to use technology.

Know how to limit screen time properly

While it is true that every parent should monitor their kids’ screen time, not all screen time is created equal. Kids under the age of 5 should definitely spend no more than 2 hours a day in front of a screen. However, older kids may spend more time – with regular breaks, of course – especially if they’re doing schoolwork or research. It is inevitable that they will use a substantial amount of data on their phones, so be sure to look around for the best cell phone deal. Family plans that incorporate a number of phones usually present the best value in terms of price and data.

However, you must also ensure that you practice what you preach, and avoid being glued to the screen yourself the entire day if you’re trying to limit your kids’ screen time.

Get them interested in robotics

Robotics is a branch of modern technology kids find to be the most appealing. By encouraging them to learn more about this field you may make your kid fall in love with this amazing science. To ensure that you start as early as possible, check out some of the best robot toys at Born Cute. By getting your kid a robotic play pal, you’ll ensure that they are always having fun but also learning. Besides, who doesn’t like robots?

Teach them how to stay safe online

Kids that are too young to understand all the dangers that lurk in cyberspace should never spend unmonitored time online. But once your kid is old enough to understand this, start teaching them more about the online etiquette. Make sure they understand that staying safe is their first and most important priority. Explain to them why they should never reveal sensitive personal information to anyone, no matter how they present themselves. They need to be made aware of the risks of going online at that age, and even when using a mobile phone. You can give them some tips and advice on how to stay safe using a site like Cell Phone Deal. Also, talk to them more about internet predators. Sure, the conversation won’t be too pleasant, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Talk with them about cyber-bullying

Finally, it’s important to discuss cyber-bullying with your kids. They will learn about it in school, yes, but it’s equally important that they have a conversation with you. Discuss with them on this matter and try to teach them how to recognize such behavior. More importantly, teach them the importance of not partaking in such behavior if they ever notice it. The effects of cyberbullying can be very detrimental and this aggressive behavior can easily spill over to the real world.

 

Some parents are trying to shield their children away from modern tech and cyberspace for as long as possible. However, this really won’t achieve anything much except make their kids feel left out in their social circles. Instead, parents should be the ones to start introducing all of this to their children and teach them all the proper ways to use it. This way, you will ensure that your kid knows how to stay safe online and learns how to interact and use modern technology in their day-to-day lives.