Technology and Internet Safety for Children 

Benefits of Technology for Children: 

– Educational opportunities and resources 

– Development of digital literacy skills 

– Creative expression through digital media 

– Social connection and communication skills

– Preparation for future tech-driven careers 

Risks and Challenges: 

1. Excessive screen time 
2. Exposure to inappropriate content 
3. Cyberbullying 
4. Online predators 
5. Privacy and data security issues 
6. Technology addiction
7. Negative impact on physical health and sleep Age-Appropriate Technology Use:

1. Toddlers and Preschoolers (2-5 years):

 – Limited, supervised screen time 

 – Educational apps and games 

 – Video calls with family members 

2. Early Elementary (6-8 years): 

 – Introduction to basic internet safety rules 

 – Supervised online activities 

 – Educational websites and apps 

3. Tweens (9-12 years): 

– More independent internet use 

– Introduction to social media (with supervision) 

– Critical thinking about online information 

4. Teens (13+ years): 

– Increased autonomy in online activities 

– Discussions about digital footprint and online reputation 

– Guidance on responsible social media use 

Strategies for Safe and Balanced Technology Use: 

1. Establish Clear Rules and Boundaries: 

– Set time limits for device use 

– Create tech-free zones and times (e.g., during meals) 

– Establish rules for online behavior and content access 

2. Educate About Online Safety: 

 – Teach children about online privacy 

 – Discuss the permanence of online posts 

 – Encourage critical thinking about online information 

3. Monitor Online Activities: 

– Use parental control software when appropriate 

– Keep devices in common areas of the home

– Stay involved in children’s online lives 

4. Model Healthy Technology Habits: 

 – Demonstrate balanced technology use 

 – Practice good digital etiquette 

 – Show interest in children’s online activities 

5. Encourage Alternative Activities: 

 – Promote outdoor play and physical activities 

 – Encourage face-to-face social interactions 

 – Support non-digital hobbies and interests 

Handling Common Technology Issues: 

1. Cyberbullying: 

 – Encourage children to report incidents 

 – Document evidence of bullying 

 – Work with parents and schools to address the issue 

2. Online Predators: 

 – Teach children about the risks of sharing personal information 

 – Monitor online friendships 

 – Encourage open communication about online interactions 

3. Inappropriate Content: 

 – Use content filters and safe search settings 

 – Discuss what to do if they encounter disturbing content 

 – Be prepared to answer questions honestly and age-appropriately 

4. Technology Addiction: 

 – Recognize signs of excessive use 

 – Implement gradual reduction strategies 

 – Offer engaging alternatives to screen time 

5 things to do: 

1. Establish and enforce clear rules for technology use 
2. Educate children about online safety and responsible digital citizenship
3. Stay informed about current technology trends and potential risks 
4. Encourage a balance between screen time and other activities 
5. Model healthy technology habits 

5 things not to do: 

1. Don’t use technology as a babysitter or constant reward 
2. Avoid dismissing children’s online experiences as unimportant 
3. Don’t ignore signs of cyberbullying or online harassment 
4. Avoid setting overly restrictive rules that may encourage secretive behavior
5. Don’t forget to praise positive and responsible technology use