Children nowadays have access to the online world from a very young age. As parents and foster carers, it is our responsibility to teach children how to be good digital citizens and use technology in a safe, responsible and ethical way. This article provides tips on how to instil positive values around technology use and set children up for success as they grow into digitally connected adolescents and adults.
Set Clear Rules and Expectations
Have open and honest conversations with your children about your expectations surrounding technology use. Set clear rules around screen time limits, not using devices at the dinner table, bedtimes when devices must be turned off, appropriate websites and apps, and asking permission before downloading new games or apps. Explain the reasons behind the rules so children understand why they are important. Reward good behaviour and set consequences for breaking rules. Having consistent guidelines will help children learn self-control.
Teach Online Safety
Make sure children understand how to protect their privacy online and avoid oversharing personal information. Let them know it’s essential to keep passwords private and only connect with people they know in real life. Warn about the dangers of interacting with strangers online. Install parental controls, use secure networks, and monitor children’s internet use. Remind them to tell a trusted adult if they ever feel uncomfortable, bullied or threatened online. Discuss cyberbullying and how to handle it appropriately.
Promote Positive Online Behaviour
Children need to learn that manners and ethics apply online, too. Teach them to write respectful comments, not spread rumours online, and avoid posting things they wouldn’t say face-to-face. Explain that the internet is public and permanent. Set a good example by role modelling polite behaviour on social media and other sites yourself. Praise children when they show empathy online and stand up for others.
Encourage Balance and Moderation
While technology has many benefits, it shouldn’t dominate children’s lives. Encourage interests and hobbies away from screens like reading, sports, and other hobbies. Spending time with family is also important, especially if you foster children with a fostering agency Birmingham. Set device-free times each day when the whole family reconnects offline. Teach children it’s healthy to take breaks from digital devices and not be online 24/7. Promote balance so they don’t neglect other aspects of life.
Talk About Real vs Fake Online
The online world often doesn’t reflect reality accurately. Start conversations about how photos can be digitally altered and people only share selected highlights on social media. Help children understand that they shouldn’t compare themselves to unrealistic standards online. Also, explain how ads don’t always tell the whole truth about products. Develop children’s ability to think critically about what they see online.
Encourage Digital Citizenship
Teach children to be responsible members of the digital community. Explain that they have a duty to treat others with kindness and respect online. Guide them to use technology ethically, legally and safely. Discuss how to handle inappropriate content and protect themselves from scams and hackers. Encourage children to be positive role models online and stand up to cyberbullying if they encounter it.
Keep Communicating
Have ongoing age-appropriate conversations to reinforce positive technology use as children get older. Don’t just set rules and expect them to self-regulate alone. Stay involved in their online activities and address any issues quickly. Adapt approaches as needed. Your guidance and support will help children become conscientious digital citizens.
By establishing household rules and having open discussions about online safety, ethics and critical thinking, parents and foster carers can instil the skills children need.
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