5. Set Boundaries
You should have boundaries in your home regarding when not to use technology. Unless the situation calls for it, putting devices away when the family spends time together is a great way to set an easy boundary. Many families stand by the assertion that there should be no phones at the dinner table.
Some kids may have an unhealthy dependence on phones, but leaving them in another room while they eat their meal can allow them to focus on the conversation, bond with their family and help them listen to their hunger cues, so they don’t overeat or undereat.
While you supervise them, consider teaching them something with technology.
6. Use Educational Tools
Technology can be used for education just as much as your kids can use it for entertainment. While you supervise them, consider teaching them something with technology. You can watch educational videos online, but if you want to give them something more interesting and hands-on, show them live wildlife cameras and talk to them about why conservation is important.
Scientists put cameras in wild habitats to keep an eye on the animals that live there without interfering with their lives, making it an excellent way for your children to watch animals and learn something new. You can talk with them about animals you might find far and wide, from your own backyard to another continent.
Still, learning with devices isn’t limited to just animals. You might introduce other science or history topics through various educational apps. Just make sure they aren’t too difficult for younger children to understand.
7. Be the Role Model
When you set limits on how your children use devices, you should also model that you follow healthy device habits. Kids tend to model their behaviour after the people they’re around, and who better to look up to than a parent?
Make sure you’re showing them how to build healthy habits with the devices they own and not to depend on them for everything. By using your devices sparingly, you’ll demonstrate an appropriate relationship with technology to them – and they might follow your lead.
By using your devices sparingly, you’ll demonstrate an appropriate relationship with technology to them – and they might follow your lead.
Technology Doesn’t Have to Be Tricky
Many parents could find technology confusing and might not be sure how to implement it into their children’s lives. As long as you start gradually and show your kids that devices aren’t necessary to have fun, your kids should grow up to have a healthy relationship with any smart devices they acquire. Of course, the most important part is demonstrating that you can have fun and survive without your smart devices, too. Be someone your kids can look up to, and you shouldn’t have an issue integrating technology into their lives.
Jane is the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she shares practical tips on how to live a greener life.
