More ‘offline’ family time spurs responsible use of technology among children
Technology and innovation are playing growing roles in children’s development, but parents should watch their digital use and establish boundaries from a young age.
Parenting in the fast-changing digital world is a popular topic among many parents and also one that many find challenging. Parents often ask: “How can I manage my child’s use of technology in a world where social media is part of modern culture?” They also ask: “Should my child have unlimited use of technology?”
These queries lead to more questions such as: “Have I lost control?”
The answer is no, parents have not lost control, or the right to control their child’s use of technology. What we should be asking is: “In a digital world how do we manage its use?”
One only has to look at the business world to realise that innovation and creativity lead to opportunity. It is also one of the reasons that schools should focus on innovation as a key component of the curriculum.
However, digital technology can also provide a child with stimulation that is repetitive and does not teach them anything new. It is merely a way of keeping the brain occupied. I suggest parents approach this territory with caution.
I am often asked how to exert control as a parent, and although I am reluctant to advise on parenting skills, I do offer some thoughts. At the age of about two, children start challenging boundaries.