Over the last decade, technology has taken over our lives. In fact, you will struggle to find a family in your neighborhood who don’t own at least one phone and tablet. In fact, more kids than ever have their own devices before they are even 10! And while it’s important to embrace technology, we need to be very careful. Therefore, make sure you don’t make these mistakes when it comes to technology and your family!
Not filtering their content online
As much as the web can have some benefits for kids, it can open them up to some dangers. After all, it’s so easy to search for something, and inappropriate sites can pop up. Therefore, you need to make sure you are filtering their content online. The best way to do this is to install some kid-friendly software on their devices so that they won’t be able to get on inappropriate sites. It will also record what they are searching for so that you can ensure they aren’t talking to strangers online. Also, as we discussed previously, you can call your broadband provider who will filter search results for you.
Not investing in high-speed Internet
With so many different kinds of devices, it’s normal for several to be running at once in your home. But it leads to internet woes when they all start running at a slow speed. After all, the kids start moaning that they can’t do their homework. Therefore, when you are choosing an internet package, you need to invest in a high-speed option. That way, you won’t have to worry about how many devices are connected to the web at one time! You can find packages here which will fulfill your family’s technology needs!
Not restricting their use of technology
It’s so important that you are making sure your family is not spending too much time on the net. There has been so much research which has shown the damaging effects of too much technology on a child’s mental and physical health. And school work can be affected if they are spending too much time with electronics. As this feature explains, they can lose their ability to focus and problem solve which can affect them in later life. Therefore, make sure you set some rules when it comes to using technology and stick to them. You might want to limit them to an hour after school. That way, they will still have time to do their homework. Also, make sure they are involved in extra activities outside of school. If they are part of a class, they will have less time to be on their devices at home!
Not using them in a communal area
A lot of issues start with technology when it’s used behind closed doors. Kids take them to their bedroom and parents are not aware of what they are up to. Therefore, it’s so important to make a communal area for your family to use the net. For example, if they use devices in the living room, you can keep an eye on what they are up to!
And be careful about spending a fortune on the latest gadget for your family. Phones and tablets are constantly being updated which means your kid might not want to use it as it’s out-of-date in less than a year!