How to tackle challenges parents face in managing children’s digital lives – Robota’s CEO

As the world celebrates digital parenting week, the issues of parenting in the digital age take centre stage again. No doubt the landscape of parenting has been altered by the exposure of children to digital content at every turn, it thus becomes pertinent to address the challenges posed by this development.

In this vein, the Chief Executive Officer of Robota STEM Training, Ebenezer Samuel takes a look at some of the questions raised by challenges of digital parenting, highlighting how to navigate the digital jungle Childers and parents have been made to wade through in the digital world. EXCERPTS:

What are the biggest challenges faced by parents in managing their children’s digital lives today?

Parents today face a variety of challenges in managing their children’s digital lives due to the rapid growth of technology and online platforms. Some of the biggest challenges faced by parents include
* Control and exposure to inappropriate violent, explicit or harmful content. To combat this, parents have to use content filters and parental controls to enable them to actively supervise their children’s online activities.

* Screen time management. Parents need to help their children find the balance between healthy digital engagement and excessive screen time

* Online safety is another concern. If you look at the rising incidents of cyberbullying, online predators and inappropriate content, you’ll realize parents need to be constantly vigilant to ensure their child’s online safety

* Privacy concerns. This is essential because children may not fully understand the consequences of sharing information online and how to ensure their digital footprint is safe from identity theft

* Digital addiction is now a growing concern. Nowadays, it’s possible for children to develop a dependency on digital activities, which can interfere with their academic performance and even their mental health. This is something parents are not able to easily recognize and address early.

* Social media pressure. This can lead to many emotional and psychological challenges like low self-esteem, and insecurities amongst others. This is best explained by a psychologist

* Keeping up with the fast-evolving technology. Staying informed about the latest updates and trends their children are using or are interested in can be a daunting task.

– Last but certainly not the least is setting digital boundaries. Setting rules guiding when, where and how technical is used, helps foster discipline

Before now the bad company parents warn their kids about being used to outside. These challenges require proactive communication, education and ongoing involvement from parents to ensure their children have a safe and healthy relationship with technology.

How can parents ensure that screen time is productive and educational?

Parents need to pay attention to and actively monitor everything their children watch online. There are various strategies parents could adopt to ensure their children that screen time is productive and educational, some of which may include
* Setting clear goals for Screen Time and Defining specific objectives such as learning new skills, completing educational tasks, or exploring creative interests
* Encouraging the use of Educational Apps and Platforms that combine fun with learning.
* Creating a Screen Time Schedule for both educational screen time and leisure activities.
* Incorporating apps, games, and websites that involve problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity to their children’s online activities.
* Encourage Content Creation Over Consumption.
* Co-engage with your child’s Content to guide their learning, and understand and discuss what they’re absorbing.
* Setting Age-Appropriate Limits and using Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools to restrict access to non-educational apps during learning periods.

By utilizing these strategies parents can ensure their children use technology to enhance learning and development.

How can parents teach children about online privacy and protecting their personal information?

In today’s digital age, it’s essential for Parents to protect their children’s information from being used by bad actors and criminals online. This can be done by
* Starting early. Parents can Introduce the concept of online privacy at an early age.
* Using real-life examples. Sharing relatable stories or scenarios can help children understand the potential dangers online
* Explaining the concept of Personal information and privacy. Parents should Clearly define what constitutes personal information and explain why they should avoid sharing it online.
* Leading by example. Parents should Demonstrate responsible online behavior themselves
* Exploring privacy settings. Parents need to spend time together with their children, reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on social media accounts, apps, and devices together.
* Encouraging critical thinking by teaching their children to question the credibility of sources and the intentions behind requests for personal information.
* Discussing the permanence of the internet. Parents need to explain the fact that, something is shared online, it’s very difficult to completely remove it.
* Educating their children on how to recognize common online scams and phishing attempts.

By actively engaging in these discussions and practices, parents can empower their children to navigate the online world safely and protect their personal information effectively.

How can parents foster open conversations about the impact of social media on self-esteem and body image?
Conversations with children about the impact of social media on self-esteem is crucial for helping them navigate the pressures of the digital world.
Here are some practical ways this can be done:

– Lead by Example
Showing healthy behaviour by showing how you use social media in a balanced, positive way.
– Discuss Media Literacy
Teach them to critically evaluate the images they encounter online, to understand that much of what they see online is not an accurate reflection of real life.
– Focus on Positive Role Models
Encourage children to follow accounts or influencers who promote good values
– Normalize Imperfection
Show examples of how influencers and celebrities use digital tools to enhance their appearance.
– Have Regular Check-ins
Make conversations about social media and self-esteem a regular part of family discussions.
– Encourage Offline Activities
Promote hobbies, sports, and interests that foster building self-confidence outside the digital world.
– Highlight the Temporary Nature of Trends
Discuss how trends constantly change, and that it’s unrealistic to chase them.

What responsibilities should children have when it comes to managing their own digital behaviour?

Children should be encouraged to become responsible digital citizens by actively managing their online behaviour.

Some key responsibilities they need to learn include
– a. Practicing online safety, protecting personal information and understanding digital footprint
– b. Password safety measures, such as using strong, unique passwords.
– c. Being a responsible digital citizen by interacting respectfully and kindly with others online
– d. managing their screen time effectively and prioritizing responsibilities.
– e. Encouraging critical thinking skills are essential for evaluating the reliability of online information and avoiding harmful content.
– f. Children should know when to seek help or report inappropriate behaviour
– g. Understanding the use of digital tools for positive purposes.
– h. Finally, respecting privacy and obtaining consent before sharing or using other people’s information.
These are all fundamental principles of ethical digital citizenship that parents need to help their children understand

By guiding children towards these responsibilities, parents and educators can empower them to navigate the digital world with confidence, safety, and respect.

Can you suggest any useful resources for parents seeking advice on digital parenting?

The world is rapidly changing and there are several excellent resources available for parents seeking advice on digital parenting, offering guidance on topics ranging from online safety and screen time management to social media use and digital citizenship. Here are some of them;

ConnectSafel: Features safety tips, guides, and news on a range of topics like social media, cyberbullying, and internet safety.

Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) : Provides research, resources, and a “Good Digital Parenting” guide with practical advice. They also Focus on balancing technology use and safety with children of all ages.

Google Family Link: A parental control tool to manage kids’ screen time, app downloads, and device location.

By using these resources, parents can stay informed, gain practical tips, and feel more confident in guiding their children through the digital world.