‘It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me’ Taylor Swift

‘It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me’…. I love Taylor Swift & she’s taking the UK by storm & my daughter is going to see her in August in Poland as she couldn’t get UK tickets As coincidence would have it I was actually listening to ‘Anti Hero’ on Spotify when I read this new report ‼️😳 ‘Parents are key when it comes to limiting screen time for kids, study finds.’ The study looked at data from more than 10,000 12- and 13-year-olds and their parents, who were asked about their screen-use habits, including texting, social media, video chatting, watching videos and browsing the internet. The researchers also asked whether their screen use was problematic — for example, whether kids wanted to quit using screens but felt they couldn’t or whether their screen habits interfered with school work or daily life. One key finding that jumped out at me: One of the biggest predictors of how much time kids spend on screens — and whether that use is problematic — is how much parents themselves use their screens when they are around their kids. Not rocket science I know but certainly a little ‘pause to ponder! moment for us all?📱 Parents are key when it comes to limiting screen time for kids, study finds

The Horse Has Bolted: My Child Has a Smartphone! Now What?

Managing a child’s smartphone use can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to ensure your child’s safety and well-being even if they have a smartphone already! Set Clear Rules and Expectations: Establish clear guidelines for smartphone usage, including when and where it’s appropriate to use the device, as well as time limits for usage. Use Parental Controls: Most smartphones have built-in parental control features that allow you to restrict certain apps, websites, and content. Take advantage of these features to create a safe browsing environment for your child. Educate Them About Online Safety: ‘Talk and Teach’ your child about the importance of privacy, the dangers of sharing personal information online, and how to recognise and avoid online threats such as cyberbullying and scams or predators. Monitor Usage: Keep an eye on your child’s smartphone usage by regularly checking their browsing history, app usage, and text messages. This will help you identify any potential issues or concerns early on. Encourage Balanced Use: Encourage your child to engage in other activities besides using their smartphone, such as outdoor play, reading, or spending time with family and friends. Lead by Example: Set a good example for your child by demonstrating healthy smartphone habits yourself. Limit your own screen time and prioritize face-to-face interactions. Establish Tech-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of your home, such as the dinner table or bedrooms, as tech-free zones where smartphones are not allowed. Have Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child and encourage them to come to you with any questions or concerns they may have about their smartphone usage. Teach Responsible Behaviour: Teach your child about responsible smartphone usage, including the importance of respecting others online, thinking critically about the content they consume, and practicing digital citizenship. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest trends and technologies related to smartphone usage among children, and be prepared to adapt your strategies accordingly. By implementing these tips, you can help ensure that your child uses their smartphone safely and responsibly.

Here are 20 questions to ask your child to help support their wellbeing.

You may be worried about the effects of having lived through a pandemic is still having on your child’s wellbeing. Here are 20 questions to help These are still challenging times for children. We need to stay connected with them without fussing. One simple way to connect is over eating together, playing together – or at bedtimes  when you are tucking them in when you are all relaxed and have plenty of time to listen. By getting into the habit of asking open -ended questions you can support and help your child feel heard and listened to and it will help you to determine if they’re suffering from anxiety, depression or fears. If you’re worried about your child, encouraging them to talk can be very helpful, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, friend or teacher. If you think a child you know has a problem, it can be hard to know how to start talking to them about it so here are some open ended questions to help. Look for clues in their play. Children express themselves through play as well as words. You can learn a lot about how they’re feeling by simply spending time with them and watching them play. If your child is aggressive or misbehaving. If your child is fighting or being aggressive, they’re doing it for a good reason, and talking  with them, not at them, may help you discover the reason. Start by telling your child that their bad behaviour is unacceptable and why – for example, because it will harm other people or get them into trouble. Then offer them the chance to talk about why they’re angry. Teens may withdraw. The teenage years are about independence and friends so your moody teen maybe suffering from a sense of loss at not seeing their friends, not being at school, or not having any clear idea around their exams and their future due to the Coronavirus. So, don’t detach – engage – stay connected through meals together, films together and activities like simply walking the dog. Then your teenager may open up when you are not directly looking at them or constantly asking them if they are OK. Here are 20 questions to ask your child to help support their wellbeing

Let’s Make Getting a Smartphone a ‘Milestone Moment’

I’ve been thinking about how to help parents delay giving their child a Smartphone and I thought about my own kid’s milestones. Childhood is a kaleidoscope of experiences, a journey punctuated by significant milestones that shape our children isn’t it?  From their first tentative steps to the exhilarating triumphs of independence, these moments mark the passage of time and development. Each milestone is a testament to growth, resilience, and the boundless capacity for learning inherent in every child. Indulge me as we embark on a nostalgic exploration of some of the most cherished milestone moments in childhood and start to think about creating a NEW tradition – delaying the rite of passage to getting a smartphone to the age of 14. You know the reasons why this generation of children suffer from phone addiction and mental health problems, cyberbullying, anxiety, isolation, vocabulary and language delay and come across damaging content from porn to predators online. Encouraging free play, outdoor activities and conversations you can change the narrative for your child. You can delay scrolling and enjoy more rolling down hills, getting muddy, climbing trees, riding bikes and playing with friends – making real memories that will last them a lifetime and put a protective barrier around their mental health. Download my free guide about how to talk to your kids about delaying getting a smartphone and do one small thing for me please Tell another person – tell a friend, tell a mum at the school gate, tell a dad at the park – spread this really important message about delaying NOT denying children smartphones until they are 14. Let’s look back with misty eyes on some fond family milestones. First Steps: The iconic moment when a baby takes their first steps is a monumental occasion for both child and parent and the whole family. It signifies the beginning of a newfound sense of mobility and independence, as well as a glimpse into the adventurous spirit that lies ahead. First Words: Uttering those first words is a momentous achievement that heralds the emergence of language and communication skills. From simple syllables to full sentences, each word spoken is a triumph of comprehension and expression. You can remember their first word I bet can’t you and what that meant to you? Starting School: The first day of school is a blend of excitement and trepidation as children embark on a new chapter of their lives. It represents not only academic learning but also a social development milestone, as they navigate friendships and encounters with peers and teachers. It’s a big day of independence for them and a big moment of letting go for you. I can still remember my first day as I hid behind my Mum’s skirt in the  playground waiting for the rather formidable Mrs. Mason to take us all into class for the first time. Learning to Ride a Bike: Mastering the art of riding a bike is a rite of passage for many children, symbolising freedom, confidence, and perseverance. It’s a milestone that fosters a sense of adventure and exploration of the world far beyond the confines of home. Losing a Tooth: The anticipation of a wobbly tooth and the subsequent visit from the tooth fairy are cherished memories aren’t they? Each lost tooth signifies growth and transformation, as children eagerly await the arrival of their permanent teeth and I remember that toothy grin from my daughter Molly in school photos! Performing in a School Play: Stepping onto the stage for the first time is a thrilling experience that builds confidence and creativity. Whether it’s a starring role or a supporting part, participating in a school play fosters self-expression and teamwork. I can still see my son Will with a tea towel on his head as Joseph in his Reception Class Nativity Play! Riding the School Bus Alone: Boarding the school bus solo is a milestone that signifies increasing independence and responsibility. It’s a moment of pride for both your child and you as a  parent, marking a new level of autonomy in their beginnings of navigating the world on their own. Graduating from Primary School: Graduating from Primary School is a bittersweet moment that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and anticipation of the adventures that lie ahead in Secondary School. This is the moment most kids get their first Smartphone – this is the moment I want you to pause to ponder and delay not deny – they are not ready to explore the internet in the palm of their hand – they won’t see the dangers or the pitfalls they’ll see the bright lights, the funny videos on TikTok, the celebrities with picture perfect bodies and lifestyles on Instagram, they’ll get trapped in algorithms they have no idea they are being manipulated by – all at 11 or 12? This is when they get addicted to sharing the minutiae of their lives on Whatsapp, receiving hundreds of messages in an hour and start uploading every minute of their lives to strangers. Winning an Award: Whether it’s a spelling trophy or a sports award, winning recognition for achievements is a significant milestone in childhood. It instills a sense of pride and accomplishment, fueling motivation for future endeavours. Watching your child’s self esteem blossom is such a wonderful thing isn’t it?  Moving to a New Home: While moving can be a daunting experience, it also presents opportunities for your child’s growth, flexibility and resilience. Adjusting to a new environment develops resourcefulness, as children forge new friendships and routines. and embrace change. Making a Best Friend: The bond forged with a best friend is a cornerstone of childhood, offering so many lovely opportunities for companionship, support, and shared adventures. It’s a milestone that cultivates empathy, loyalty, and the joy of shared experiences and lots of special memories. Leaving School: Leaving school is a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It’s a time for reflection

‘Digital Pacifiers’: A Modern Comfort or A Huge Concern?

Using smartphones as ‘digital pacifiers’ or ‘dummies’ is an increasing phenomenon in our modern society, where smartphones serve as soothing tools for both toddlers and teens. While the term ‘pacifier’ or ‘dummy’ traditionally refers to a rubber object designed to calm babies by satisfying their innate sucking reflex, the concept has evolved in the digital age to include handheld electronic devices, particularly smartphones and tablets. Kids are glued to their device. The allure of smartphones as digital pacifiers is obvious. This is the generation who never allows themselves to be bored – or is it because we don’t allow them to be bored? With vibrant screens, engaging apps, and an endless array of entertainment options, smartphones possess an inherent ability to captivate young minds and momentarily alleviate distress or boredom. Whether it’s colourful games, interactive stories, educational videos, or soothing music, these devices offer a plethora of stimuli that can effectively distract, calm, or entertain children of all ages. But is that a good thing? The problem is that it’s probably all done unconsciously. From pink smartphones attached to prams, to the touchscreen iPotty toilet for the toddler who never needs to be apart from their iPad, to a digitally tethered teenager, we are all addicted to our smartphones. We’ve all seen parents handing over a smartphone to a toddler in a restaurant or an iPad to a baby in a pushchair. It’s too easy it’s too soon! Parents are on automatic pilot resorting to using smartphones as digital pacifiers in various situations: I just want to change that and make families more mindful of what they are doing. Which one of these have you seen? During nappy changes or clothing changes: Parents use a smartphone to play soothing music or show colourful, moving images to distract their baby and keep them calm or distracted. While queuing at the supermarket: Parents use their smartphone to keep their child busy and entertained to prevent them getting bored or fractious. Distraction during meltdowns: When children become restless, fussy, or tantrum-prone, parents hand them a smartphone to divert their attention and prevent full-blown meltdowns, especially in public settings like restaurants. At mealtimes: To ‘encourage’ a fussy eater! But using smartphones to distract children during meals can disrupt family bonding and hinder the development of healthy eating habits. It can lead to mindless eating because it can stop a child from becoming aware of when they are full. It also more importantly stops real life connection and conversation. Social gatherings: Handing a child a smartphone at a family gathering – like an elderly grandma’s birthday party, a friend’s wedding, or a cousin’s funeral. But by constantly using smartphones to distract children during social gatherings can inhibit their ability to engage with others, develop social skills, and form meaningful connections with family and friends. It may also convey a message that virtual interactions are more important than face-to-face communication. On a train or car journey: Instead of looking out of the window and chatting about what they can see or hear parents’ hand over their smartphone, so kids look down than rather look around them! Before bedtime: Engaging with smartphones before bedtime can disrupt toddlers or teenagers’ sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted by screens, which can interfere with the production of melatonin and make it difficult for them to fall asleep. This can also result in inadequate or poor quality sleep which affects a child’s overall health and well-being. During class or studying: Using smartphones during class or while studying can distract teenagers from learning and negatively impact their academic performance. It can lead to missed information, reduced comprehension, and lower grades. While crossing roads: Using smartphones while crossing roads is extremely dangerous and speaks for itself as it can lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. While smartphones can be convenient tools for momentarily pacifying children, their excessive use as ‘digital pacifiers’ raises concerns for me. Most parents are just making smartphones the default device without thinking! If we use them as emotional regulators relying solely on smartphones to distract children from uncomfortable emotions or challenging situations, we are preventing them from developing healthy coping mechanisms and emotional resilience. We are sending the message that it’s not okay to feel or express ‘big emotions’ like anger, frustration or boredom which is potentially leading to long-term emotional difficulties whatever their age. Let’s stop sleepwalking into smartphones as convenient ‘digital pacifiers’ in too many simple situations – it’s time to ‘pause to ponder’ when you hand them over either to babies, toddlers, or teenagers Let’s make getting a smartphone a milestone – a rite of passage, like getting your first bike, or passing your driving test – not just a digital pacifier with no sense of occasion.

Before Giving Your Kids A Smartphone Ask Yourself These Questions

Giving a child a smartphone without guidance is like giving them the keys to a 4×4 without teaching them how to drive – it can lead to terrible accidents and enormous dangers on their digital journey‼️ 97% of 12 year olds now have access to a smartphone and 45% are online ”almost constantly” So the task for parents is to move from a mindset of ”protect” to one of ”prepare” Through research we’ve learned that relevant, regular, consistent conversation, adds an extra layer of protection around your kids online and taking the time to understand (not just monitor) the ways your kids use new apps, is the best way to equip them for digital life. Here are some questions to ponder: 📲 Is my child mature enough to handle the responsibility of having a smartphone? 📲 Have we discussed and established clear rules and boundaries around smartphone usage? 📲 Am I prepared to actively monitor and supervise my child’s online activities? 📲 Have I educated my child about the potential dangers and risks associated with smartphone use? 📲 Do I have the necessary tools and resources to implement parental controls and restrictions on the smartphone? 📲 Is my child emotionally ready to navigate social interactions and digital communication platforms? 📲 Am I willing to have open and ongoing conversations with my child about their experiences and challenges with the smartphone? 📲 Have I considered alternative options or compromises, such as a basic phone with limited capabilities, before giving them a smartphone? 📲 Do I have a plan in place for managing screen time and ensuring that my child maintains a healthy balance between online and offline activities? 📲 Am I ready to lead by example and demonstrate responsible smartphone use to my child? It’s hard resisting ‘Pester Power’ around giving in to giving your child a smartphone because ‘everyone else has one’ but our job is to be our child’s parent – not their friend! We know the dangers as well as the benefits to having a smartphone. So don’t give in too early or too easily. Delay #TeensOnScreens until 14 Delay Social Media until 16 Nurture your screen free relationships – have fun, connect, chat & prepare your child for this important milestone in their life. Download my free guide about how to handle what to say here

Building Confidence in Saying ‘No’ to Smartphones until Aged 14 – Tips & Scripts for Parents

97% of 12-year-olds in Britain have a smartphone ‼️📱 You may have seen or heard the campaign that’s gone viral (in a good way‼️)  by Daisy Greenwell who shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, outlining her worries about the expectation that children in year 5 and 6 at Primary School will be given smartphones, mostly because everyone else has one. Daisy & Joe’s eldest daughter is 8 so it’s a subject close to their hearts. Daisy set up a WhatsApp group ‘Parents United for a Smartphone Free Childhood’ with her friend Clare Reynolds to discuss the topic, hoping a few other friends might join. Then things went BANANAS… 🍌 Joe, her husband, wrote on LinkedIn: ⚡ Within 24 hours over a thousand concerned parents had joined, reaching WhatsApp’s limit ⚡A day later over 50 regional groups had popped up the length and breadth of Britain ⚡Daisy and other members were interviewed live on The Today Programme, Five Live and local radio ⚡The movement has been featured and discussed across the national media ⚡Celebs have been in touch asking how they can help ⚡We’ve heard whispers that it’s been discussed in Parliament ⚡And Daisy was even mentioned on Thought for The Day on Saturday – one down from Desert Island Discs Click on the link to explore the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign It’s a HUGE topic of concern & I was recently doing some talks in Walton & in Wakefield about keeping kids safe online for Safer Internet Day & I was also talking about their use of technology & smartphones as well as hosting a webinar for parents on the subject that was oversubscribed so we know it’s a big problem for parents! I was also invited onto LBC Radio to discuss banning kids under 14 from having smartphones with presenter Ben Kentish. While it’s not necessarily about “banning” smartphones, delaying their use until age 14 can have many, many benefits for children’s development and well-being: Physical Health: Delaying smartphone use can encourage children to engage in more physical activities and outdoor play, reducing sedentary behaviour and promoting overall physical health. Mental Health: Excessive smartphone use, especially at a young age, has been linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Delaying access can help mitigate these risks and promote better mental well-being. Social Skills: Without constant access to smartphones, children have more opportunities to develop face-to-face communication skills, empathy, and social connections with peers and family members. Academic Performance: Excessive screen time, including smartphone use, has been associated with poorer academic performance. Delaying smartphones can help children focus better on their studies and develop healthier study habits. Safety: Young children may not fully understand the risks associated with online interactions, such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. Delaying smartphone use allows parents more time to educate their children about online safety before granting them access to potentially risky platforms. Development of Self-Regulation: Delaying smartphone use encourages children to develop self-regulation skills, such as managing impulses and controlling screen time, which are important for their long-term success and well-being. Family Connection: Without the distraction of smartphones, families have more opportunities to bond and spend quality time together, whether it’s through shared activities, conversations, or meals without screens. When we all started using smartphones, we had little understanding of the impact they have on children and teenagers. Now we do. The evidence is overwhelming, and we need to act, now. SMARTPHONES ARE HIGHLY ADDICTIVE Tech companies spend millions on making apps and devices intentionally addictive, affecting young brains in a way that is similar to gambling. One study found one-in-five teens looked at YouTube “almost constantly”.2022 Study into teens and social media SMARTPHONE USE CORRELATES TO MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMSThey’ve been directly linked to poor mental health and low self-esteem, especially in girls. And social media use in teens correlates directly to rates of anxiety and depression.Depression and social media use in teens SMARTPHONES EXPOSE CHILDREN TO HARMFUL CONTENTThe internet is a gateway to pornography, bullying, grooming and all sorts of harmful content. Social has been proven to increase self-harm and suicidal tendencies amongst adolescents.2020 study on smartphones and mental health. SMARTPHONES REDUCE ATTENTION-SPANSThey’re changing the way children’s brains develop, and fundamentally affecting their ability to concentrate.2021 Study by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights SMARTPHONES ROB CHILDREN OF THEIR CHILDHOODEven harmless content isn’t harmless. Time spent on a device is time not spent with other children; playing, exploring, interacting and developing vital social skills.Must-watch Jonathan Haidt Talk While there are certainly benefits to smartphones, delaying their use until age 14 allows children to mature emotionally, socially, and cognitively before facing the potential challenges and distractions that come with smartphone ownership. My approach is delay #TeensOnScreens ! But lots of parents I talk to don’t feel confident in talking about it or feel brave enough to say ‘no’ until their kids are older. Building confidence in saying no to smartphones until age 14 involves a combination of understanding, communication, and consistency. Because I want YOU to feel primed, prepped & confident in changing the course of your child’s mental health & wellbeing, their social skills, their eyesight, their online safety, their feelings of anxiety, isolation & loneliness, their exposure to cyberbullying & porn, their disposition to addiction, their exposure to predators & even the damage to their neck & spine muscles. Here are some strategies for you as parents to build your confidence in your decision: 💪 Educate Yourself: Learn about the potential risks and benefits of smartphone use for children. Understanding the research and current recommendations can give you confidence in your decision. 💪 Clarify Your Values: Reflect on your family values and priorities. Consider how smartphone use aligns with these values and use them as a guiding principle in your decision-making process. 💪 Communicate Openly: Have open and honest conversations with your child about your decision. Explain your reasons clearly and listen to their perspective. This helps establish trust and understanding between you and your child. 💪 Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries

The Great Smartphone Debate: Does Your Parenting Style Hold the Key? 📱🔑

I’m interested in raising awareness around delaying, not denying kids smartphones. It’s not about scary mongering or searching for doom & gloom research about the dangers of smartphones – for me it’s about supporting parents in feeling more confident in their decisions, whatever they are, and helping them handle the whining, pressure & anger that they inevitably will face when they say ‘let’s wait until you’re 13 or 14’ Research conducted by psychologists such as Diana Baumrind & later expanded upon by researchers like Maccoby & Martin has extensively explored different parenting styles & their effects on child development. These studies have identified authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved parenting as the primary styles & have examined their implications for various aspects of children’s behaviour, including their self-esteem, academic achievement, & social competence. So how about a little ‘Pause to Ponder’ moment to kick start your week 🤓 From Helicopter to Hands-Off: How Does Your Parenting Style Navigate the Smartphone Dilemma? Parenting styles probably play a significant role in how parents approach the decision of giving their child a smartphone. Different parenting styles influence the timing, rules & expectations surrounding smartphone usage. Here’s a breakdown of how various parenting styles may impact your decision: 📱Authoritative Parenting: Authoritative parents tend to be nurturing, responsive & set clear expectations for their children while also allowing them some autonomy. When it comes to giving kids a smartphone, authoritative parents are likely to consider factors such as their child’s age, maturity level, & the need for communication & safety. They may set guidelines for responsible smartphone use, such as limiting screen time, monitoring online activities, and having open discussions about digital citizenship and safety. 📱Authoritarian Parenting: Authoritarian parents typically have strict rules & high expectations for their children, often without much room for negotiation or flexibility. In the context of smartphones, authoritarian parents may be more likely to impose rigid restrictions or outright bans on smartphone usage until a certain age or under specific conditions. They may prioritise obedience & compliance over individual autonomy or the child’s desire for independence. 📱Permissive Parenting: Permissive parents are often indulgent & lenient, placing few demands on their children & allowing them significant freedom. When it comes to smartphones, permissive parents may be more inclined to give their children smartphones at a younger age without clear guidelines or restrictions. They may be less likely to monitor their children’s online activities or set limits on screen time, believing in giving their children autonomy to make their own choices. 📱Uninvolved Parenting: Uninvolved parents are generally disengaged & emotionally detached from their children, providing little guidance, support, or structure. In the context of smartphones, uninvolved parents may be indifferent or unaware of their children’s smartphone usage. They may not establish any rules or boundaries regarding smartphone use, leaving their children to navigate the digital world without guidance or supervision. So, which one resonates with you? Do you think that your parenting style significantly influences how your children are introduced to smartphones & the rules & expectations surrounding their usage? Is it time for you to consider your parenting style, your child’s individual needs & maturity level, & the potential benefits & risks of giving your child a smartphone when making decisions about when and how to give your kids access to this technology – and delay giving your child a smartphone until they are 14? Regardless of your parenting style open communication, setting clear guidelines, monitoring usage, and fostering responsible digital habits are the keys 🔑 to guiding your kids regardless of the parenting style you employ or the decisions that you come to. It’s not about a pointed finger☝️ judging you – more about a helping hand 🖐️ supporting you 😀 Here’s a free resource that I wrote recently called: Tips and Scripts for Parents – Building Confidence in Saying ‘No’ to Smartphones to help with with lots of ideas, suggestions and scripts as well as research to say when your kids inevitable say ‘But everyone else has one!’ Get in touch if you’d like me to speak to your organisation or group of parents for one of my ‘Power Hours’ about this topic. Feel free to share my free Tips and Scripts download with friends, family, colleagues or teachers. What are your thoughts?

Digital Wellness Tips for Parents & Children

‘The New Digital Divide’ is digital wellness — which means responsible and healthy relationships with technology — all part of overall children & student wellbeing which is an essential 21st-century skill. It is not uncommon that children spend 6 to 8 hours on digital screens every day. Some children are taught knowledge and skills necessary for digital wellness at home. Most parents, however, find it difficult and would welcome more support from school to help them support their children in building digital wellness at home. If children don’t learn this at home and if they can’t practise it in school, many children are left to their own devices to navigate in risky waters of the digital world. There is more to it. Failure to value digital wellness may put educational equity further at risk and widen “the new digital divide” among young people. Because practically all children have access to the Internet, “the new digital divide” is the gap between children whose parents understand that they must limit screen time and those whose parents have fewer or no opportunities to do so. Families and schools share responsibility in developing children’s digital wellness How do you ‘talk & teach’ your kids about balance or do you just nag a lot or put your head in the sand? When talking about digital wellness with kids, it’s important to use age-appropriate language and engage them in a meaningful conversation. Here are some simple tips to guide your discussion: Start with open-ended questions: Begin the conversation by asking open-ended questions to encourage your child to share their thoughts and experiences. For example, “How do you feel when you spend a lot of time on screens?” Explain the concept of digital wellness: Help your child understand that digital wellness refers to finding a healthy balance in their technology use, promoting well-being & being mindful of their online activities. Discuss the positives and negatives: Talk about the benefits and drawbacks of technology. Highlight the advantages, such as learning opportunities and staying connected with friends, as well as the potential negatives like excessive screen time or cyberbullying. Set screen time limits: Discuss the importance of setting limits on screen time and explain why it’s necessary for their well-being. Encourage them to take breaks, engage in physical activities, and pursue other hobbies offline. Promote a digital detox: Explain the concept of a digital detox, where they can take a break from screens for a certain period of time. Encourage activities like reading, playing outside, or spending time with family and friends without electronic devices. Teach responsible online behaviour: Emphasise the importance of being kind, respectful, and responsible when using digital devices. Discuss the potential consequences of sharing personal information or engaging in inappropriate online behavior. Encourage critical thinking: Teach your child to question and evaluate the content they encounter online. Help them understand the difference between reliable and unreliable sources of information. Model healthy digital habits: Children often learn by observing their parents and caregivers. Be a positive role model by demonstrating healthy screen time habits and using technology responsibly. Create technology-free zones or times: Designate specific areas or times in your home where screens are not allowed, such as during meal times or in bedrooms. This can help create boundaries and promote healthier technology use. Maintain an ongoing conversation: Digital wellness is an ongoing topic, so make sure to keep the conversation alive. Check in with your child regularly, listen to their concerns, and provide guidance as needed. Remember, the goal is to create a safe and balanced relationship with technology while helping children understand the importance of their well-being in the digital world. These were some of the findings in Growing Up Digital Australia which aimed to understand the scope of physical, mental and social consequences of digital media and technologies on children and young people.