Digital Technologies
Creating healthy digital habits!
Recent research shows that five to 14 year olds spend a minimum of 10 hours per week online outside school. Here's how to ensure online time is positive and productive.
TECHNOLOGY AND PARENTING
by Martine Oglethorpe
Surveys have consistently shown that children have been exposed to rising amounts of screen time in recent years, as well as parents struggling to manage the moods and time demands of children and young people.
As kids spend increasing amounts of time tethered to a digital device, it makes sense that the time they are online, is time well spent. As parents we’re often concerned about the connections children and young people are making and the subsequent impact on their wellbeing. We’re often concerned about the content they’re consuming, and how helpful, relevant and safe it is for them. Rightfully, there’s concern that the time spent online, scrolling, searching and swiping, may well be time better spent on other pursuits.
Obviously, these digital devices won’t be going anywhere fast. So, we need to look at how we remain in control of our screen use, and ensure the time we’re investing online is adding something helpful, positive and meaningful to our lives.
Here are a few tips to help you be more intentional with your scrolling. Being mindful of how time spent on devices, is certainly not just reserved for young people.
Encourage creation not just consumption