Children learn just as much from their parents’ actions as they do from their words. If you set your phone aside during family time, restrict your time spent on specific applications such as social media, and concentrate on the practical uses of your device, your children will develop similar habits.
Modeling behavior
Every parent soon learns that their children are sponges for everything they do and say. This is referred to as “observational learning,” and it is how children catch up on adults’ language, mannerisms, and tactics.
This is not a one-on-one learning environment. Children, like everyone else, make their own choices and learn through experience, much to the chagrin of some parents. Nonetheless, it is an essential consideration for parents to have in mind and a strong tool for instilling some good screen-related behaviors.
Walking the walk
The goal for parents is to model appropriate screen time behavior. This does not imply that you should live a screen-free existence, but it does mean that while discussing technology usage as a family, you must keep in mind that it is a two-way street.
Begin by doing a self-assessment of your screen time. Consider the following:
- When was the last time you looked at a screen throughout the day?
- How much time do you spend each day staring at a screen? How much of it is spent on work or household duties, and how much is spent on personal activities?
- Do you carry your phone with you at all times, even during meals? Is this necessary?
- Why do you spend your spare time on screens? Are you in contact with your friends? Are you a gamer? Are you a reader?
And, of course, the most critical question: Are you satisfied with the outcome? Would you be satisfied if your children responded the same way? If not, it’s time to alter your role model’s conduct.
Developing screen rules
Burgers are consumed by both parents and kids.
To the extent feasible, any regulations governing screens should extend to the whole family via the use of a family contract or equivalent method. No screens at meals, no screens at work, and time away from screens to craft, read, walk outdoors, and exercise, among other things, should apply to everyone. This is an excellent location to emphasize family time. Ascertain that all family members are aware of the guidelines.
Another option is to install parental control software on your own phone to monitor your compliance with the restrictions. We may develop such strong habits that we are unaware we are taking out our phones to check the news or see who updated Facebook until we do. This may assist you in establishing more equitable standards for your children.
Where regulations vary, discuss the distinction between children and adults. If an emergency occurs at work and you are required to keep your phone on hand, explain this to your children. Additionally, explain why rules may vary across households, or why your tween’s rules may differ from those of your grade-schooler, to resolve disputes.
Parental control software may assist in enforcing rules and assist children in making better decisions about screen usage. With Mobicip, you can help your children receive more screen time.