Technology and kids: A Guide for Parents

In today’s digital world, technology is everywhere. iPhones, iPads, and other devices have become a part of everyday life, and for many parents, the question isn’t if their children should use technology but how to introduce it safely and responsibly. If you’re navigating this technology with your primary school-aged child, here are 7 tips on how to get started.

1. Start with Clear Guidelines

Before handing over a device, it’s important to set expectations. Think of it as teaching your child to cross the road—you wouldn’t let them go it alone without guidance. Some of these may include the following:

• Create a Tech Agreement: Sit down with your child and write out rules together. For example, limits on screen time, appropriate apps, and when and where devices can be used (e.g., no devices at the dinner table or before bedtime). You can manually set limits on devices to help facilitate this, more on this in the next tip!
• Age-Appropriate Use: Start with educational apps or games that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Make sure you are aware of the features of different apps, for example – can children connect and chat with others in the app? This is always an important detail to be aware of as it can mean that other adults may be able to start up conversations with your child. In some circumstances this can lead to online grooming.
• Model Good Behavior: Children learn by watching you. Show them how you use technology thoughtfully and set your own boundaries to lead by example.

2. Use Parental Controls

Both Apple and Android devices come with a range of tools to help parents create a safer digital environment.
Apple Devices:
Set Up Screen Time: Use the built-in Screen Time feature to set app limits, schedule downtime, and track usage.
Content Filters: Enable restrictions on app downloads, web browsing, and in-app purchases. You can block adult content and only allow age-appropriate apps and websites.
Family Sharing: Apple’s Family Sharing allows up to six family members to share purchases, subscriptions, and iCloud storage. Parents can also set up “Ask to Buy,” which requires children to get approval for app downloads and purchases. This feature gives you full visibility over what’s being added to their devices and helps monitor their app usage.
Location Sharing: Family Sharing also lets you share your child’s location for added safety, helping you keep track of their whereabouts when they’re out and about.
Android Devices:
Google Family Link: This free app allows you to create a Google account for your child and manage their device usage. You can set screen time limits, approve or block app downloads, and monitor activity.
Content Restrictions: Use Google Play’s parental controls to filter age-appropriate apps, movies, and games. You can also restrict in-app purchases to prevent unexpected charges.
Location Tracking: Family Link includes location-sharing features, so you can check where your child is if they have their device with them.
Focus Mode: On newer Android devices, Focus Mode allows you to pause distracting apps during homework or family time.

3. Focus on Balance
Technology is a tool, not a babysitter. While iPads can be great for learning and entertainment, they shouldn’t replace physical activity, social interactions, or creative play.
Encourage Offline Activities: Help your child discover hobbies and interests away from screens, like sports, reading, or art.
Set Screen-Free Zones: Bedrooms and mealtimes are great places to enforce screen-free policies to encourage healthy habits.
Monitor Usage: Check in regularly to see what apps or websites your child is using and discuss their experiences with technology.

4. Teach Online Safety
Even young children need to understand the basics of staying safe online. Make these lessons part of your tech introduction.
Talk About Privacy: Explain why they shouldn’t share personal information, like their full name, address, or school, online.
Understand App Features: Be aware of the features of apps your child uses. For instance, does the app allow children to connect and chat with others? If so, this could open the door for strangers, including adults, to contact your child. In some cases, this risk could lead to serious concerns like online grooming. Make sure to research each app carefully and discuss its features with your child.
Stay Involved: Supervise their online activity, especially when they’re first exploring the digital world.
Know the Risks: Familiarise yourself with the apps your child wants to use, including their features, risks, and age recommendations.

5. Keep Communication Open
Technology can be a positive experience when it’s used wisely. Encourage your child to come to you if they encounter something online that makes them uncomfortable or if they have questions about what they’re doing.
Create a Safe Space: Let them know they won’t get in trouble for asking questions or admitting mistakes.
Regular Check-Ins: Ask about what they’re enjoying, who they’re interacting with, and any challenges they’ve faced.
Teach Critical Thinking: Help them recognise trustworthy content and understand that not everything online is true or safe.

6. Be Aware of New Social Media Regulations
Recent changes to social media use regulations in Australia aim to protect children online and give parents greater control:
Age Verification: Social media platforms are now required to verify users’ ages. This helps ensure children under 13 are not creating accounts, in line with most platforms’ policies.
Parental Consent: For children under 16, platforms must obtain explicit parental or guardian consent before creating an account.
Increased Privacy Protections: Enhanced privacy settings automatically apply to accounts for users under 18, limiting public visibility and exposure to inappropriate content.
Reporting Mechanisms: Platforms must provide accessible tools to report harmful content, cyberbullying, or inappropriate behavior, giving parents and children a way to address online issues promptly.
These changes are designed to create a safer online environment and encourage social media companies to take more responsibility for protecting young users. As a parent, it’s important to stay informed about these updates and ensure any platform your child uses complies with the new regulations.

7. Gradually Increase Independence

As your child grows, they’ll need to learn how to navigate technology responsibly on their own. Start small and build up their independence.
Introduce Social Media Slowly: Delay social media use until your child meets the platform’s age requirement (usually 13 years old). When the time comes, set up accounts together and talk about how to use them safely.
Reward Responsibility: If your child shows they can follow the rules and use technology respectfully, consider loosening restrictions over time.
Stay Involved: Even as they gain independence, stay engaged and continue to have conversations about their tech use.

Final Thoughts
Introducing technology to your child doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With clear boundaries, open communication, and a focus on balance, you can help your child develop a healthy and responsible relationship with technology. Remember, you’re not just teaching them how to use a device—you’re equipping them with life skills to navigate the digital world with confidence and care.
What’s your approach to introducing technology? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments!