Expert advice on how to improve your relationship with tech – and each other.
Raising kids in the digital world can be hard. Technology is changing fast. It’s not always easy for parents or teachers to guide children. But by working together, we can help kids stay safe and smart with tech.
1. Ask your child questions
Teacher: “Parents, talk to your child about their devices like you do with their schoolwork.”
Parent: “What games do you like? What don’t you like? How much time do you spend on it?”
Child: “I like drawing apps! I don’t like too many ads.”
2. Discuss the risks of technology use.
Parent: “Sometimes I worry you might see something not good online or spend too much time on the phone.”
Child: “I didn’t think about that.”
Teacher: “Talking honestly helps kids understand what’s okay and what’s not.”
3. Be on the lookout for underlying issues.
Teacher: “If your child is always on their phone, maybe they’re feeling left out or stressed.”
Parent: “Let’s talk. Are you okay? Is something bothering you?”
Child: “Sometimes I feel nervous about my school friends.”
4. Make “yes” and “no” rules.
Parent: “Yes rules: Be kind online. Use your time well. Learn something new.”
Child: “Okay! What about the no rules?”
Teacher: “No rules: Don’t share personal info. Don’t be mean online. Don’t use unknown websites.”
5. Create tech-free zones.
Parent: “Let’s keep phones away during dinner and bedtime.”
Child: “Can we make a charging box in the lounge?”
Teacher: “Great idea! Sleep and family time are very important.”
6. Establish expectations around content.
Teacher: “Use apps that match your child’s age and understanding.”
Parent: “Ask us before installing anything new, okay?”
Child: “Sure! Can we check a new game together?”
Be aware of your children’s use of devices.
7. Explore technology together.
Parent: “Let’s watch a fun learning video together.”
Child: “I’ll show you how I made this digital drawing!”
Teacher: “When parents join in, it becomes a shared experience.”
8. Know when to take a step back.
Parent: “We’ll help guide you at first, and slowly give you more freedom.”
Child: “That sounds fair.”
Teacher: “It’s all about trust and learning step by step.”
Model healthy habits for your children.
9. Act as a team.
Parent: “We’ll also try to use phones less during family time.”
Child: “Let’s have a no-phone Sunday!”
Teacher: “That’s teamwork – not just rules for kids, but for everyone.”
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10. Make it playful!
Child: “Can we find a cooking video and try it together?”
Parent: “Yes! And later, let’s play that math game you love.”
Teacher: “When tech is used for fun learning, it becomes a great tool for bonding.”