March 17, 2023
Digital technology plays a powerful role in children's education, along with a significant part of their free time. Yet balancing screen time with offline activities poses a challenge, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world shifted to remote learning and our devices provided a crucial tool to connect with each other.
Now that we've entered the "new normal" and in-person activities have resumed, how can parents continue to harness the social and educational power of the online world, while ensuring their families make the most of vital, real-world activities?
The key is not how much time kids log in front of a screen but how that time is spent. From teaching digital literacy to openly discussing the risks and benefits of technology, here are five tips for finding the right balance:
1. Ensure Kids Stay in Touch With Friends
In the post-pandemic situation, kids can — and should — spend time together in the real world, with online interactions supplementing rather than replacing this. At the same time, the pandemic reminded us of the value of technology to transcend geography and connect with distant friends and family via video call. Adding a fun element to a virtual connection, such as a board game or story time, can make this a nurturing experience.
2. Discuss the Benefits and Risks of Screen Time
A recent study suggests that video games are associated with improved memory and impulse control. And while many parents harbor concerns about the negative impact of gaming, they can address and reduce them by close monitoring and open dialogue. UNICEF's guidelines for promoting healthy technology use for children include discussing the benefits and risks with kids from a young age, teaching good behavior and the importance of being respectful online and stopping screen time at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
3. Use Games, Videos to Supplement Physical Activities
In the wake of the pandemic, the internet was flooded with fun and engaging workouts and replacement physical education lessons aimed at all age groups. Along with age-appropriate, active video games, these provide a great supplement to in-person physical activities — helping kids to practice specific skills and movements, access unique classes and sports and encourage them to get moving.
4. Teach Digital Literacy
It's almost inevitable that your kids will stumble upon questionable information while online — it presents a unique opportunity to break down the complex topic and enhance digital literacy. Cox offers a free, Digital Academy for families, covering topics like, What is TikTok, and offering links to free educational apps, games and websites.
5. Give Yourself a Break
Many parents feel guilty for allowing their kids screen time, so it helps to remember that digital devices are not all bad. "Technology is an important part of our modern world," according to the UNICEF report. "It won't help your child if you set overly restrictive limits or send the message that technology is something to fear. Instead, focus on teaching healthy habits that will stay with your child for a lifetime."
More Tips for Managing Screen Time
- Guide to Chat GPT for Parents and Caregivers
- 4 Tips for Managing Devices and Screen Time for Families
- Parents' Ultimate Guide to Snapchat
Did you know?
Cox Panoramic Wifi offers features like a Downtime Schedule and Parental Controls to help ensure children don't over-do screen time and not exposted to inappropriate content.
