These Devices might be Smart, but we Must Be Smarter!
By Andrew Greenfield | Child & Educational Psychologist MAPS FCEDP
In today's digital age, smartphones and other devices have become an integral part of our lives. While they offer numerous benefits, including connectivity, a sense of belonging and access to information, they also come with potential risks, especially for young children and adolescents. Based on my over 25 years of working with children, I would recommend delaying smartphones until high school around the age of 12 or 13. If your child already has a smartphone, it's essential to guide them towards healthy usage habits to minimize negative impacts.
A 2021 poll highlighted that screen time was the number one health concern for Australian parents, surpassing issues like cyberbullying and diet. The question of how much screen time is appropriate is complex and varies based on several factors, including age, maturity, and family dynamics.
A study published in November 2023 in the Nature Human Behaviour journal, titled "An umbrella review of the benefits and risks associated with youths' interactions with electronic screens," sheds light on this topic. Dr. Taren Sanders, one of the authors, noted several key findings:
- The overall influence of screens on outcomes such as depression, body weight, literacy, and sleep in children is small.
- What matters more is the content on the screen and how children use it.
- More TV watching was associated with poorer literacy skills, but educational programs or co-viewing with a parent could benefit literacy.
Social media use, particularly excessive use, was consistently associated with harm, including depression, anxiety, and risk-taking behaviours
Here are some tips to help you manage your child's smartphone usage effectively:
1. Establish Clear Rules and Guidelines
Setting clear rules regarding smartphone usage is crucial. Discuss and agree upon the following with your child:
- Usage Time Limits: Decide on appropriate daily screen time based on your child's age and needs.
- No Phone Zones: Designate certain areas, such as the dining room and bedrooms, as no-phone zones to encourage family interaction and better sleep habits.
- App Permissions: Review and approve the apps your child wants to download. Ensure they are age-appropriate and safe.
2. Encourage Open Communication
Maintain an open line of communication with your child about their smartphone use. Encourage them to share any concerns or issues they encounter online. Discuss topics like:
- Online Safety: Teach them about the importance of protecting personal information and avoiding interactions with strangers.
- Cyberbullying: Make sure they know what cyberbullying is and how to report it if they experience or witness it.
3. Be a Role Model
Children often imitate their parents' behaviour. Set a good example by practicing healthy smartphone habits yourself. This includes:
- Limiting Your Own Screen Time: Show your child that it's possible to enjoy life without constantly being on your phone.
- Prioritizing Face-to-Face Interactions: Make an effort to engage in meaningful conversations with your child without distractions.
4. Encourage Offline Activities
Promote a balanced lifestyle by encouraging your child to participate in offline activities. These can include:
- Physical Activities: Sports, outdoor play, and regular exercise can help reduce screen time and promote physical health.
- Hobbies and Interests: Support your child's interests in reading, drawing, playing musical instruments, or other creative activities.
5. Monitor and Discuss Content
Regularly review the content your child accesses on their smartphone. Use parental control features to block inappropriate content and discuss:
- Content Appropriateness: Explain why certain types of content are not suitable for their age.
- Digital Literacy: Teach your child how to critically evaluate information they find online and differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources.
6. Encourage Responsible Social Media Use
If your child uses social media, guide them on responsible usage. This includes:
- Privacy Settings: Ensure their accounts are private and they understand the importance of protecting their personal information.
- Positive Interactions: Encourage them to use social media positively, avoiding negative comments and respecting others online.
7. Regular Check-Ins
Conduct regular check-ins with your child to discuss their smartphone use. Ask questions like:
- How do you feel about the time you spend on your phone?
- Have you encountered anything online that made you uncomfortable?
- Are there any apps or games you're particularly enjoying?
8. Educate About Screen Time Effects
Help your child understand the potential effects of excessive screen time, such as eye strain, sleep disruption, and reduced physical activity. Explain the benefits of moderation and taking breaks.
9. Use Technology Positively
Show your child how to use technology for positive purposes, such as:
- Learning and Education: Introduce educational apps and resources that can support their learning.
- Creativity and Expression: Encourage them to use their smartphone for creative projects, like photography, video editing, or digital art.
10. Stay Informed
Keep yourself updated on the latest trends and developments in technology and digital safety. This will help you make informed decisions about your child's smartphone use and address any new challenges that arise.
By implementing these tips, you can help your child develop healthy smartphone habits and reduce the potential negative impacts. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate smartphone use but to ensure it is balanced, safe, and enriching for your child's overall development.
Recognizing Warning Signs
Excessive screen time can lead to issues like depression, anxiety, social isolation, and academic decline. Warning signs include:
- Increased time spent in bedrooms.
- Declining academic performance.
- Lying about screen time.
- Behavioural issues.
- Poor sleep hygiene.
- Abandoning social activities.
- Loss of interest in seeing friends.
- Excessive irritability and tiredness.
- Unprovoked outbursts.
Recommendations for Parents
- Encourage Unplugged Time: Create tech-free zones, days, or times.
- Use Control Apps: Consider apps that limit device usage.
- Keep Screens Out of Bedrooms: Ensure a screen-free sleep environment.
- Eliminate Background TV: Minimize constant exposure to screens.
Remember, these devices are smart, but we must be smarter in how we manage and utilize them!
Kindly authored by Andrew Greenfield
Child & Educational Psychologist MAPS FCEDP