If your child spends too much time on the Internet compulsive behavior may develop. This can lead to an unhealthy balance of interests and activities in your child’s life. Here are some signs that your child may be developing a digital addiction:
Too much time
Stays online much longer than intended to originally
Sneaks onto devices when adults aren’t watching
Lies about the amount of time spent on devices
Stays up all night to be on devices
Disobeys rules set in relation to digital time limits
Emotional fallout
Becomes angry and/or agitated when interrupted on devices
Gets irritable when access to devices are denied
Becomes moody, irritable, and/or depressed when not on devices for a couple days
Preoccupied with online/gaming life
Prefers being online than being around real, live friends and family
When offline, remains preoccupied with getting back online
Checks social media and emails frequently throughout each day
Sacrifices doing homework or household chores for being on devices
Forms new bonds with people met online
4 Ways to Manage Your Child’s Screen Time
#1 Choose a Location Wisely
Set up device use in a central location, outside of your child’s room. Make sure it’s situated so that you can easily view the screen when you step into the room.
#2 Install Apps for Age-Appropriate Content
Check what your child is engaged in - the sites/apps your child visits should be age-appropriate. Ask your child questions about what they are passionate about online.
#3 Limit the Hours Your Child Spends Online
This is based on your family values and beliefs around technology. Just remember the best way that kids learn is through our actions as adults. How are you modeling digital balance?
#4 Little Kid-Proof Your Browsers
Install parental control software on your computers. They will screen web searches and sites for inappropriate content. Sites can also be blocked based on your chosen protection levels.
Parents can find Apps that are age appropriate and grounded in learning. Find a whole bunch that ISHCMC loves here:
The Bark Blog reviews and provides tips on different apps
National Online Safety provides one page reviews of apps in a responsive manner
Comments