Hello Hidden Valley Families,
 

The sun is shining, the grass is green, and your kid wants screen time.  What to do?

 

• If your child can play outside or with a friend, that’s almost always a better choice.

  • In peer play, children receive feedback, and have opportunities to practice problem solving, communication, social coordination, and perspective taking. 

 

• Realize why you or your child are using screen time. Get curious, build awareness.

  • Are you using tech as a babysitter? To help your child calm down? 

 

• Be clear about what your expectations and boundaries are around screen-time. If you set an expectation or limit, follow through and be consistent. 

  • The most effective parental control is free and knows your kid very well. That's right: It's you. 

  • Make a plan so your child knows what to expect.  (i.e. You can have 30 min of screen time using these approved apps after you finish your homework.)

 

• Be mindful of your own habits and what you are modeling.

  • One of the advantages of modern technology is that you can be at the playground and scroll through your phone at the same time. We've all been there. The thing is, children notice. They're watching us and will mimic our behaviors.

 

• Be familiar with games your child is playing/using and terms

  • (RPG, FPS, KDR).  Knowing the meaning behind these terms gives you insight into the games.

  • Should I let me my kid play Minecraft? Fortnite? 

 

Ultimately, the use of technology and screen time is like most activities; it is about balance. 

Wishing you a weekend ahead that is balanced with time for yourself, your family, and activities that make you happy to be alive.

 

In Education Together,

Kristi