When 86% of our youth feel like they can’t chat with an adult about their online world, know that you as a parent or carer, are not alone in this journey. Technology companies use powerful techniques to keep us glued to our phones and this can accidentally interfere with the things that matter most to us. Pause and consider what matters most in our lives and use friction to help us reduce unhealthy habits.
- Start With Yourself Model healthy digital habits for your kids. An honest look at our own digital habits is a first step toward building empathy and trust.
- Tables & Bedtimes Just like our devices, we need to recharge. Develop habits of unplugging and recharging by setting consistent, predictable device-free zones. There are lots of ways to do this, but if you are looking for a couple of places to start, we suggest tables and bedtimes.
- Accountability There are no internet filtering solutions that are 100% foolproof, but putting some measures in place can help you feel better. Think of them like a seatbelt — offering as much protection as possible from accidents in the online world.
- Ride. Practice. Drive. When you teach your kids to drive, you don’t simply hand them the keys and wish them good luck. You prepare them to navigate risky situations and road hazards through driver’s ed. Take this same approach in the digital world.
- Time Well Spent The digital world wants you to keep scrolling, but at the end of your life, all you have is your time and attention. Choose screentime that helps you create and connect rather than consume.
