Navigating the digital world and determining appropriate and healthy screen time is a challenge for many parents.
Ian Murray, a therapist with Southeast Psych, recently addressed Lower School parents on the critical topic of technology and screen time for young children. His presentation provided parents with a comprehensive guide to navigate the digital age, emphasizing the importance of open communication, modeling desired behavior, and utilizing available resources to foster a healthy relationship with technology within the family. Below are some practical tips and resources Ian Murray shared:
Managing Technology Use
Early Communication:
Initiate open conversations with your children about technology before its introduction into their lives. Establish a foundation of understanding and set expectations together.
Data Familiarity:
Get acquainted with the data surrounding screen time and its effects on children. Informed decisions are key to promoting healthy tech habits.
Create a Plan:
Develop a comprehensive plan that aligns with your family's values. This should include setting limits, establishing norms, and defining the role of technology within your household.
Use Values to Inform Decisions:
Let your family's values guide your decisions regarding technology use. This ensures a balanced and purposeful approach.
Model Desired Behavior:
Demonstrate the behavior you wish to see in your children. Reflect on your own technology use and ensure it aligns with the values you've established. Model the behavior you expect from your child.
Check for Readiness:
Assess your child's readiness for independent tech use. Look for behaviors that indicate a responsible and mindful approach.
Review Expectations:
Regularly review and update expectations and agreements with your child. Adjust these as needed based on your child's development and changing circumstances.
Proactive Approach:
Anticipate and address your child's concerns about technology use. Foster a supportive environment for open communication.
Behavioral Observation:
Track your child's tech usage through screen time apps, personal observations, and feedback from teachers.
Engage Together:
Actively participate in your child's technology use. Use this time to bond, share experiences, and have meaningful conversations about responsible screen time.
Assessment:
Regularly assess how technology use is impacting your child. Consider whether more or less freedom is needed and if additional support is required.
Positive/Negative Impact:
Reflect on the overall impact of technology on your family. Identify positive aspects, address negative consequences, and maintain a balanced approach.
Resources
Podcasts:
Screen Time Stories
Healthy Screen Habits
Life Kit Parenting: NPR
Live Life Bigger Podcast
Hidden Brain: You Can’t Hit Unsend
Websites:
Live Life Bigger Foundation
Healthyscreenhabits.org
National Institute of Health
The Childhood Collective
Stanford Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department – Screen Dependence
Documentaries:
Watch The Social Dilemma to gain deeper insights into the impact of technology on society.