Child Safety...

Balance your time online

We are also likely to use similar tech tools and platforms in our workplaces as we get older. That means now is the time to get good at managing time online, so it doesn’t take over our lives completely.

Spending most of the day in front of a screen is easy, but too many uninterrupted hours on YouTube, Netflix or the latest games are probably not doing us any good.

Here are some tips to help you improve your online habits:

• Make a plan — set daily tasks you would like to achieve including study, exercise, socialising and rest. This may help you maintain focus during the day.
• Set routine breaks — if you are using a device for an hour or more, make sure you take a short break. This could include stretching or a short walk.
• Turn off notifications for your social media or messaging apps on Apple and Android devices while studying.
• Monitor or limit your phone use if you are constantly distracted. Many phones have settings that allow you to track how long you spend on apps and set daily usage limits.
• Try limiting your gaming time if playing is beginning to affect your schoolwork or social life — organise some other activities with friends.
• Turn your devices off or put them on airplane mode at least an hour before bedtime to ensure you have the best quality sleep.