Technology is an essential part of our daily lives, and families have more devices than ever. Kids are exposed to computers, smartphones, and tablets at an early age, so it’s important to find healthy ways to use them. Learning to interact technology is an essential part of the child development process, but many parents have questions about where to begin. This guide outlines a few simple steps you can take to help your kids balance tech use and other activities.

Set Limits

Many tablets and computers now feature parental controls that allow you to set time limits for particular apps or the device in general. Establishing limits keeps kids from spending all their time in front of a screen and encourages them to pursue other activities. In addition to setting these boundaries, you also need to enforce them. Bending the rules once or twice can tempt kids to ask for more screen time later.

Enjoy Screen Time Together

Sit with your kids while they use a tablet, computer, or smartphone. Not only does this allow you to monitor how they’re using certain apps, but it also gives you more time together. Interact with them while they play—ask about the apps and games they play with and find out why they like them. You might be surprised to find that many of their favorite digital activities build child development skills like letter and number recognition and problem-solving.

Set an Example

Most importantly, it’s important to set an example for your kids. Trying to limit their screen time when you’re constantly glued to your phone won’t work. Make a point of enforcing rules for the whole family like tech-free time during meals and limiting the amount of time you spend in front of a screen each day. Not only are you setting a good example, but you’re also taking a more active role in your child’s growth.

Striking a balance between family time and screen time is crucial for healthy child development, but it’s not always easy. To assist families in St. Charles and Cottleville, MO, in this pursuit, Great Beginnings offers early childhood education programs for kids of all ages. They work diligently to help young students explore, learn, and develop the cognitive and social skills they’ll need to succeed now and in the future. For more information on their child care programs, visit their website or call (636) 724-5048 for St. Charles or (636) 447-4212 for Cottleville.