In today’s modern world, there are many high-tech gadgets on the market, from smartphones and tablets to laptops and video game consoles. As a parent, deciding when and how to introduce electronics to your little one can be a struggle, especially when they transition into a child care environment where these tools are used for educational purposes. Here’s how to introduce them to today’s devices. 

A Guide to Introducing Children to Technology

When Should Electronics Be Introduced to Children?

Child care centers and health care professionals continue to stress the importance of unplugged playtime with toys, building blocks, and other children. These activities boost social skills, creativity, imagination, and critical thinking skills. That being said, electronics and educational games, apps, or media can also help teach them valuable skills.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time to under one hour per day for children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old. Starting at age 6, screen time should continue to be monitored and limited to ensure every child is getting sufficient sleep, physical activity, and socializing time. 

How Can You Set up Parental Controls?

To protect and monitor your child’s access to digital media, televisions, tablets, phones, and computers offer parental control options. While the setup instructions do vary between devices, most electronics have a parental control function in the settings section. For android phones and tablets, for example, go into settings, select the “users” tab, and create a restricted profile with your own unique functionalities. You can limit what apps and websites your child can access. 

What Are the Benefits of Parental Controls?

By establishing parental controls, you will rest easy knowing your child is unable to access unsavory or adult content while on a tablet or electronic device. In addition, they won’t be able to make app purchases or pay to download songs and movies without your permission. This added layer of security will keep your child safe from scams and predators. Plus, you’ll be able to monitor their traffic and time on a device to ensure they’re abiding by your rules. 

If you’re a parent in Cortlandt Manor or Croton-on-Hudson, NY, and you’re looking for a dedicated child care program that’s known for creating a fun, yet educational environment, A Rising Star Children's Center will be perfect for your family. Run by Gloria Foster and Tom Vayda, this early childhood learning center has been serving the community for over 15 years. Call today at (914) 788-4582 to schedule a tour of their facilities, and visit their website to learn more about their child care services.