Technology is playing a bigger role in our everyday lives. Whilst we may think that it is helping us achieve tasks quicker and easier, it can also be a hindrance too. We have become to rely upon technology for both task completion and entertainment. Now, this is not necessarily a bad thing but like everything, it should be used in moderation.
As a family, we don’t impose screen time limits in so much that the children are able to access their tablets throughout the day. We do, however, ensure that they have completed their chores and enquire as to what it is they will be doing on the tablet. When it comes to having family time or winding things down for the day we ask that tablets etc are put away – this includes Mr. Boo and me as we want to set the example that whilst phones and tablets are fantastic, they are not the only source of entertainment.
How do others find the balance?
- We try to encourage Charlie to help out around the house in exchange for screen time. Nothing major but it’s a good incentive to get him with household chores. Twinderelmo.co.uk
- We have some software set up on my son’s laptop that restricts how much time he is allowed a day. We can then restrict/extend this if he is being a horror or has earned more time. www.yorkshirewonders.co.uk
- We only allow computers once during the week and then a little more at weekends. I think because that’s how we’ve always done it, the kids have never questioned it. TV time tends to be before bed as part of the routine – ITNG then sleep time. myfamilyfever.co.uk
- I noticed my daughter getting very grumpy recently especially when asked to do something that pulls her away from tv/iPad etc. I banned TV/screens for her this week and she’s been a delight! Coincidence? Maybe but hey it’s been a lovely week. I’ve said she can have time at the weekend on TV/iPad (she’s 5). Www.talkingmums.com
- I use the time feature on the Amazon Fire tablets so they can only be used for a set amount of time each day. We agreed how much time together and My boys haven’t complained – they just accept it when the tablets switch off. www.myboysclub.co.uk
- I’m totally in the minority here but I don’t have limits on technology time other than not at the table wile we’re eating. Our balance is achieved because the kids aren’t desperate to get online to get their allotted time and they always come off willingly because they know they can go back on – my two will happily spend time playing board games, baking with me or going out for a walk. I’d say my two spend less time online and in front of a TV with no limits than lots of kids with limits. I’d obviously have a rethink if they were choosing to spend so much time on technology but right now, this works great for us – The Diary of a Frugal Family
- No limits here. The kids are at school all day, so playing on their phones or DS after school is fine by me.They only use the PS3 Saturday and Sunday mornings as they see their dad Saturday and were out playing Pokemon Go Sundays.I grew up with ZX Spectrum, Nintendo and Playstation from the early 80’s and beyond.We played them as a family or with friends.My kids all have other interests, so technology is an integrated part of their lives just like my childhood was. – Bug, Bird and Bee
Baby and Toddler Tablet Usage Survey 2017. An infographic by the voucher codes website NetVoucherCodes.co.uk
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