Like any tool, technology is just as useful and dangerous as the way you use it. Researchers found that teens were more likely to experience depression and suicide when smartphones became mainstream. Children’s brains don’t have the same level of development as adults so they are more at risk for using unhealthy technology than adults. Although it might be tempting to keep your child from using technology forever, this is not the best option. You can teach your child healthy habits using safe phones for kids, rather than taking their phone away. Here are some ways to help your child develop a good relationship with technology: These tips will help you to build a positive relationship with technology for your child: It’s easier to distinguish between useful and wasteful screen time. Being able call relatives or complete assignments online is a great convenience. Digital tools are a great example: The Pandemic illustrates how children would not be able check in with relatives or continue school if they didn’t have access to the internet. The internet is useful but can be very distracting. It’s easy for hours to be lost in endless entertainment, such as shopping and gaming. Your child will be able to see the differences by using examples. Ask your child, after going through several scenarios, if they think watching Netflix every night is a good use of technology. Playing a game after dinner for an hour? Each family is going to draw a line at a different point. Find what is comfortable for you. 2. It’s important to create family-wide guidelines. Children model the behavior of their parents, and you shouldn’t be excluded. Family guidelines should be flexible enough to accommodate everyone. Maybe you have a spouse who has a physical job. However, if your child learns online, it is important to not set an “no screens after 5 p.m.” blanket rule. Which rules are most appropriate for all? You might consider rules such as putting your digital device down at dinner and only allowing it to be used when you are with family members or friends. You can set time limits on how much each person can spend online or using gaming apps. It’s also an idea to talk about where smartphones should be and shouldn’t go. Maybe bedrooms and classrooms are safe zones for phones. 3. Many studies show that cell phone use before bedtime can have a negative effect on your sleep quality. Blue light from cell phones can reduce the production of sleep-promoting hormone melatonin. Insomnia can be caused by using cell phones, tablets and computers during the night. This can also lead to anxiety and depression. You should ask them to stop using technology at night after 9 pm. If they do this again, you need to take their phone away and any other electronic devices from the house. You can read a book or listen to soothing music with your child if they require an evening routine. 4. You should only use your phone in an emergency vehicle. If you want to be a role model, then you must walk the walk. Your children’s health starts at home. Guess what your child will do if you text or talk while driving? Children learn by observation and association. You can send a clear message to your children by not using any phone while in the car, even if it’s in the backseat. You should only use your phone while driving, and not in emergency situations. 5. Monitoring Your Child’s Digital Activity Do you really know where your children are at all times? While you don’t want to be sneaky and check your electronics at night, it is important that communication channels are open. Which apps do they use? Which are their top websites? What are their internet friends? If you think your child might not be telling the truth, what options do you have? Many devices have parental control settings. The Family Safety setting can be enabled, blocked applications removed, or monitored by your child. You, as a parent have the right of knowing what your kids are doing online. You can keep your kids safe and informed by setting rules. 6. Technology shouldn’t be used to escape. While it might be possible to keep your child quiet by giving them a tablet, this is not the best way to help. Not by playing Candy Crush, children need to be able to manage their emotions well. About half of teenagers report becoming addicted to social media. These teens aren’t just suddenly downloading Instagram, but their parents allow them to get away from real life’s problems through technology. 7. Offer real-world alternatives to technology Instead of depending on technology for entertainment, give your children an alternative. There are many great alternatives to technology, such as clubs and sports, or spending time with your family. Technology can be a distractor when kids are too busy. Technology is making it harder for children to communicate in person. Your children should learn how to build real relationships. They shouldn’t play only with friends on the internet. 8. Learn to be a teacher Spend your time teaching your kids about the benefits and disadvantages of technology. How can they help if cyberbullying happens to them? Are there any signs that someone you meet online could be a child predator or child bully? What can they do to protect their data? You can help them use technology safely and productively. It is easy to become addicted to digital devices. A healthy relationship with technology can make it easier to avoid mental illness, stay safe and be productive. You are their parent and can teach your children the ropes better than anyone else. Be involved and thoughtful. Make sure that your habits are in line with the ones you tell them. You are the first to create a tech-savvy family. 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