Kids in the House - Technology & Media https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media en 8 Ways to Keep Your Kids Safe Online https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/all-parents/safety/8-ways-to-keep-your-kids-safe-online <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/eight_ways_to_keep_your_kids_safe_online.jpg?itok=roXSbOTm" width="600" height="401" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Many parents are concerned with how to keep the Internet safe for their children. And the best way to do so is by knowing the things kids do online and the risks they face. Understanding how children behave on the internet is the key to keeping them away from potential dangers. An <a href="https://www.vpncompare.co.uk/kids-online-safety-parents/">online safety guide for children</a> can be handy if you want to make sure they are entirely safe when spending time on their devices The proper way to enforce rules online varies based on the age of the child.   It is important to understand that monitoring Internet usage is not an invasion of a child’s privacy. Here are eight ways to keep your kids safe online.</p> <p><strong>1. </strong><strong>Be open about online safety.</strong></p> <p>Just as parents would not allow their child to talk to strangers in person without supervision, parents should take the same caution when dealing with their child’s Internet usage, especially with younger and middle-aged children.</p> <p><strong>2. </strong><strong>Create passwords and limitations.</strong></p> <p>There are many ways in which parents can create passwords to limit the use of computers or certain programs. Parents can use programs which will create time limits or prohibit visits to certain websites.</p> <p><strong>3. </strong><strong>Monitor their time on the Internet.</strong></p> <p>Kids are spending increasing amounts of time online. Parents should set limits to avoid excessive usage of the Internet that takes away from other important activities.</p> <p><strong>4. </strong><strong>Restrict the location of use of the device.</strong></p> <p>Psychologist Lee Hausner believes that <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/internet/advice-basic-online-safety-kids">computers should be located</a> in an area of the home where anybody can walk by at any time and have a sense of what is going on.  Middle-aged children should not be allowed to use the Internet unsupervised, and older children should be thoroughly educated on the dangers of interacting with strangers online. </p> <p><strong>5. </strong><strong>Explain what defines a stranger.</strong></p> <p>Theresa M. Payton is a national cyber security expert who helps parents understand the relationship that children in this time have with the Internet and how to set boundaries for <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/internet/advice-basic-online-safety-kids">safe and cautious use of the Internet. </a> Payton believes it is important to define the idea of  “a stranger” because young people on the Internet may not take the safety precautions that they would normally take in person.  It is important because many children will consider that in an online situation, a friend of a friend on an online platform is not a stranger.</p> <p><strong>6. </strong><strong>Enact the “Grandmother Rule.”</strong></p> <p>Payton also suggests using the grandmother approach just as it would be used in the traditional sense- children should not post anything online that they would not want their grandmother to see. </p> <p><strong>7. </strong><strong>Educate on cyber-bullying.</strong></p> <p>Cyber-bullying is a growing concern among parents and they should teach their children the appropriate way to act online. If they wouldn’t say it to them in person, then they shouldn’t say it to them online.</p> <p><strong>8. </strong><strong>Discover educational and appropriate websites.</strong></p> <p>There are many websites that will help your child to learn and grow. Encourage them to visit these websites to help them learn while they are on the Internet. Teaching children and teens to act safely online is a collaborative and ongoing effort that will change as the child ages and becomes more independent.</p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/all-parents" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ALL PARENTS</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/all-parents/safety" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safety</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/all-parents/safety/online-safety" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Online Safety</a> </li> </ul> </section> Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:39:08 +0000 Kids In The House 47549 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/all-parents/safety/8-ways-to-keep-your-kids-safe-online#comments What Parents Need to Know About TV for Kids https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/what-parents-need-to-know-about-tv-for-kids <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/what_parents_need_to_know_about_tv_for_kids.jpg?itok=a5fSoFT1" width="600" height="400" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Kids love screens, and they are especially mesmerized by the television. Not all television viewing is bad. Some programming, such as Sesame Street, can help children learn academic and social skills, or explore parts of the world they may not see otherwise. The key to keeping television viewing habits healthy for your kids is to utilize the set in a way that offers some entertainment and learning activities without becoming the only way your kids experience the world outside your front door.  </p> <p><strong>What Problems Are Associated With Too Much TV?</strong></p> <p>To understand why television plays a detrimental role in the health of children, it’s important to know what problems are associated with too much television viewing. Because television is an inactive habit, the body is not burning calories. Obesity and screen time have been linked in many studies. Every time your child sits in front of the television he or she misses an opportunity to get up and play, which is beneficial to the body – and mind – in numerous ways.</p> <p>The passive behavior of television viewing also means children are not actively learning and engaging in the world, says Dr. John J Ratey. Kids who <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time/damage-caused-too-much-screen-time">watch too much television</a> as toddlers get to school and don’t know how to engage with others or play interactively. Additionally, studies have shown that the average child watches 8,000 murders on television before they complete elementary school. This happens when children have unlimited access to both content and the amount of time they are allowed to watch TV. </p> <p>Michael Gurian recommends turning the screen off from ages birth to two, since this critical time in <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time/how-much-screen-time-too-much">brain development</a> for young children requires experiences that come from sensory experiences, such as touching things and interacting with objects and people.</p> <p>Older children should have limits on the amount of screen time they are allowed as well. According to neurologist Jane Tavyev Asher, an important recent study shows that teenagers who watch more than two hours of television each day have higher rates of <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time/neurologists-view-screen-time-children">mood disorders</a>, such as depression.</p> <p><strong>What Television Guidelines Should You Set?</strong></p> <p>Rather than giving your child free reign when it comes to the television, it’s important that you set some basic guidelines for viewing, and that you also consider things you can do to limit the amount of television time your children get. Here are some basic guidelines you can apply in your own household.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Keep TVs out of the bedroom</strong>. This enables you to monitor the amount of time and the content of programming your child is watching.</li> <li><strong style="line-height: 1.538em;">Set a specific amount of time per day or week for viewing</strong><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">. This might mean no television on school nights or a certain number hours total per week.</span></li> <li><strong style="line-height: 1.538em;">Watch programming with your child when you can</strong><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">. This will help you to monitor the content they are viewing as well as help you analyze how much television is appropriate for your child.</span></li> </ul> <p><a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time/how-limit-tv-and-technology-your-home"><strong>Find alternative activities</strong></a>. Carolyn McWilliams says when you offer competing activities that are fun and engaging for children, they will be less likely to spend time in front of the screen.</p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ELEMENTARY</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology and Media</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TV and Screen Time</a> </li> </ul> </section> Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:08:22 +0000 WebAdminKith 47339 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/what-parents-need-to-know-about-tv-for-kids#comments Tips for Buying Cell Phones for Kids https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/tips-for-buying-cell-phones-for-kids <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/tips_for_buying_cell_phones_for_kids.jpg?itok=X694jdra" width="600" height="400" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Today, cell phones and kids seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. While parents are often proud to say “I didn’t have one when I was young and I did just fine,” kids are quick to reply, “All my friends have one, and I should, too.”</p> <p>Cell phones can pose problems when in the hands of kids (too much texting, too much screen time, too little socialization with ‘real’ people), but Marc Klaas says they can also be used to protect children. Not only can you talk to your child whenever you want, but you can also utilize <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/all-parents/safety/teaching-kids-be-safe/how-cell-phones-can-keep-kids-safe">tracking software</a> that will tell you where your child is or it will alert you when your child goes outside of a set perimeter.</p> <p>If you are considering purchasing a cell phone for your child, start by assessing the purpose for the phone. Here are some important things to consider.</p> <ul> <li><strong style="line-height: 1.538em;">Your child’s age</strong><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">. Older kids who go to activities after school, spend nights away from home or who drive could use the phone to keep in touch with you when they aren’t home.</span></li> <li><strong style="line-height: 1.538em;">Your child’s activity level</strong><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">. Are they involved in programs after school hours? Do they spend long periods of time traveling for sports or participating in after school events? If they spend a lot of time away from home, it may be a good way to keep in contact with your child.</span></li> <li><strong style="line-height: 1.538em;">The reason your child wants a phone</strong><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">. Do they want it to spend time online? To keep in touch with friends? To play games?  Determining this reason will better help you decide if it will benefit your child or be a distraction to them.</span></li> </ul> <p>Next, consider the type of phone that would work for your child. A younger child may benefit from a pay-as-you-go phone, which would allow you to contact him or her as needed but wouldn’t provide chances for excessive texting, chatting, or online surfing. A smartphone, on the other hand, offers a variety of perks, such as unlimited texting and online researching, if you choose a plan that allows for this.</p> <p>If you decide to purchase a regular cell phone, contact several carriers and ask each about the various plans they carry for families. Many companies offer plans directly associated with kids and teens, says National Cyber Security Expert Theresa M. Payton. This might include <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/setting-limits/letting-kids-or-teens-use-smartphones-and-tablets">cell phone family plans</a> that limit the amount of texts your child can send, and it also might include features for locating your child.</p> <p>After choosing the correct phone and cell phone plan, establish <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/setting-limits/setting-boundaries-kids-and-their-cell-phones">cell phone rules</a> before handing it over to your child. You may want to set rules for usage time, screen time (playing games and apps) and online time. Payton urges parents to keep cellphones – and all online devices – out of the bedroom. If your child drives, make a strict no texting or talking while driving pact, and follow through with taking the phone away should you find out the rule was broken. Rosalind Wiseman recommends telling your child to use a <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/bullying/prevention/how-cell-phone-passwords-can-help-kids-avoid-trouble">cell phone password</a> to protect the phone from others who might gain access and do things that could be inappropriate or even harmful to your child.</p> <p>Though the idea of cell phones and kids is often a scary one for parents to consider, when used correctly they can be beneficial in keeping in touch with your kids when you can’t be with them in person. </p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ELEMENTARY</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology and Media</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Cell Phones and Texting</a> </li> </ul> </section> Wed, 02 Jul 2014 21:20:26 +0000 WebAdminKith 47337 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/tips-for-buying-cell-phones-for-kids#comments What to Do About My Teen Sexting https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teen/technology-and-media/what-to-do-about-my-teen-sexting <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/teen_sexting.jpg?itok=gz-ct4iw" width="600" height="400" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/teens-and-sexting.jpg"><img alt="Teens Sexting" title="Teens Sexting" src="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/teens-and-sexting.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 376px; float: left;margin-top:20px; margin-right:20px" /></a>Teens are curious about their bodies, and don’t always make the best decisions when expressing their feelings especially with those with the <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/sexuality/talking-about-sex/how-boys-and-girls-use-sexting">opposite sex</a>. With cell phones and digital devices capable of snapping pictures to exchange by text, sexting has become a popular trend. As author and educator Rosalind Wiseman explains, today’s children have grown up online and they naturally flirt this way. However, <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/sexuality/talking-about-sex/how-boys-and-girls-use-sexting">sexting has dangerous consequences</a> and parents need to be proactive in teaching their children appropriate means of communication.</p> <p>One important issue to address with your teen is that the picture or suggestive text can be misconstrued. While someone might want a flirtatious picture, they don’t expect a sexy skin-baring shot. Sending a racy photo can escalate a relationship, even one that’s casual, to a level your teen isn’t prepared for. <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting/what-is-sexting&lt;br /&gt;&#10;">Sexting</a> as foreplay is going too far. Many girls, who are eager to please, send sexts to make the boy they like happy. <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/bullying/sexual-harassment/what-is-sexual-bullying">Peer pressure</a> is also a huge factor!</p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">Another problem is that messages can accidentally be sent to the wrong person. Imagine sending a picture meant for a boyfriend to your grandmother. While that may be extremely awkward, that is by far the least dangerous situation. Imagine if your teen sent that picture to a boyfriend, who then sent it to his friends, and they continued to send it amongst their friends until eventually the photo or text ends up on social media. Now it’s not deleteable and discoverable forever. That’s way too much exposure for your teen.</span></p> <p>Another issue is if the picture disturbs the individual who receives the message, then they may take legal action against you and your children. Lori Getz, a technology expert, says depending on the ages of the teens initiating and receiving the texts, <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting/what-sexting">state and </a><a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting/everything-parents-need-to-know-about-texting">federal laws</a> may be broken. Charges could involve a sex offender tag, or even a felony charge for child porn, which comes with years of ramifications. </p> <p>Parents need to <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting/what-should-i-do-if-my-teen-is-sexting">implement phone rules</a> and remind their teen of rules that have become too lax. Cell phone rules and guidelines can include the following:</p> <ul> <li><strong><a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/sexting-teens.jpg"><img alt="Sexting Teens" title="Sexting Teens" src="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/sexting-teens.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 259px; float: right; margin-top:30px; margin-left:20px; margin-bottom:50px" /></a>Consequences for breaking the rules</strong>. Use of the phone is a privilege. Your child gets the benefit if they use it responsibly. Breaking this means they have penalties like restricted time access, stripped down service with no text or data, or no phone for a set limit of days.</li> <li><strong>Cell phones are to be deposited in a certain location when entering the house</strong>. Doing so will prevent your child from accessing the phone while they’re in their room or a bathroom, two common places for snapping selfies. </li> <li><strong>Have a set time when all phones must be off</strong>. This cuts down on any hidden activities. If you need to set up a charging station where everyone’s phone is docked/plugged in, do it.</li> </ul> <p><span style="line-height: 1.538em;">If you see a sext your teen has sent or received, refresh them on your family values. Remind them to hold themselves to a high standard. Talk about how words can mean more than what they think. Elaborate by explaining the kinds of pictures that are okay to take. Give concrete examples like fun and slightly flirtatious as opposed to half naked and provocative.</span></p> <p>Explain to your teen that if the person receiving the picture cares about them, they would go through the steps to court them in person to arrive at that step. Help them see that real life contact is more meaningful than a quickly taken picture. Dr. Wendy Walsh, a relationship and parenting expert, urges parents to encourage their teens to have <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting/sexting-and-advice-what-parents-can-do-about">peer-to-peer time</a> with people their age where they aren’t connected by exchanges via texts.</p> <p>If you see a sext to sent to your teen, then hit the delete key. This is especially important if it’s not something they asked to see. Keeping the message will lead to temptations that can get them into trouble.  Also, make sure they know how serious the situation is and give them potential “what if” scenarios. Doing so may make them realize the gravity of the situation and how those few quick minutes could affect the whole family for a lifetime.</p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/teenager" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TEEN</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/teenager/technology-and-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology and Media</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/teenager/technology-and-media/cell-phones-and-texting" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Cell Phones and Texting</a> </li> </ul> </section> Wed, 02 Jul 2014 19:20:52 +0000 WebAdminKith 47319 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teen/technology-and-media/what-to-do-about-my-teen-sexting#comments How Can I Monitor My Child's Social Media? https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/how-can-i-monitor-my-childs-social-media <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/how_can_parents_monitor_their_childs_social_media_accounts.jpg?itok=zPj7DKPS" width="600" height="480" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Love it or hate it, social media is a popular tool for people all around the world. Your children probably share everything from pictures to their daily activities with their virtual friends. While some children may have private accounts on sites such as Facebook, others may be more public about what they are doing. Sometimes sharing intimate details with strangers they’ve never met. Much of what is put online goes to people your children don’t know, which makes monitoring your child’s social media accounts an important task.</p> <p>How can you assure your children are safe online without completely infringing on their personal lives?</p> <p>First of all, get over the idea that <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/cyberbullying/monitoring-electronic-use-bullying-prevention" target="_blank">monitoring your children’s online activity</a> is bad. It’s important that you understand what your children are saying and sharing on social media. Child development professor Dorothy Espelage states that parental monitoring is key in keeping kids away from dangerous situations, alcohol and drugs, and other deviant behavior.</p> <p>Cyber security expert Theresa M. Payton explains that one way to <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/setting-limits/advice-safe-internet-use-different-ages" target="_blank">monitor your children’s online use</a> is by using passwords on your devices, especially with younger children. This way, if they want to play online they have to ask you first.</p> <p>Clinical psychologist Dr. Lee Hauser recommends talking to your children about the dangers that happen <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/internet/top-3-tips-online-safety" target="_blank">when children share too much information online</a>. Some parents may balk at sharing the scary stories, but if your child doesn’t understand the potential danger, they could inadvertently be placed in a dangerous situation.</p> <p>Keep social media out of the bedroom. Payton says children, particularly those in middle school, should not take their iPod, phone and or other tablets into the bedroom because this is where <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/setting-limits/advice-safe-internet-use-different-ages" target="_blank">Internet crimes against children</a> happen. Keep the computers in a common area where you can walk by and see what they are doing at any time.</p> <p>Understand that some social media sites are designed for adults, not children. If your ten year old wants to join Facebook, explain that it’s a site that was designed for adults and that they could potentially be exposed to a variety of adult conversations, topics, cartoons and other information. Internet safety expert Mary Kay Hoal recommends showing your children <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/facebook-and-social-networks/are-facebook-and-twitter-appropriate-kids?qt-more_videos=1#qt-more_videos" target="_blank">social media sites designed for younger ages</a>, such as Yoursphere.</p> <p>And if your children do become active online, make sure to <a href="http://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/technology-and-media/facebook-and-social-networks/should-parents-be-facebook-friends-their" target="_blank">befriend your child on social media</a> and follow them so you can see what they are saying. While you may think it is intrusive to see what your child is posting on Facebook, Twitter, or any of the other popular social media sites, parenting author Harry H. Harrison Jr. reminds parents that children don’t often understand how what they post now could later infringe on their future lives. Harrison tells parents to monitor their child’s online activity the same way they monitor their child’s television watching.</p> <p>While social media is a new thing for many parents, it has become an important part of the social life of today’s kids. Therefore, it’s imperative parents teach their children safe social media practices while monitoring their use of these sites.</p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ELEMENTARY</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology and Media</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media/facebook-and-social-networks" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Facebook and Social Networks</a> </li> </ul> </section> Thu, 26 Jun 2014 19:09:39 +0000 WebAdminKith 47306 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/elementary/technology-and-media/how-can-i-monitor-my-childs-social-media#comments TV Exposure in Infants & Children: Timing is Everything https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/toddler/play-and-downtime/tv-exposure-in-infants-children-timing-is-everything <div class="field field-name-field-article-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-725w/public/too_much_technology.jpg?itok=hVuOf8T9" width="600" height="338" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p>I recently visited the home of a family of four.  Two parents a three year old and an 8 month old infant.  The place was abuzz with activity, sound and what seemed like a very loving &amp; caring environment.</p> <p>After several minutes of getting acquainted, I began looking and listening a bit closer.  Of particular notice were several monitor screens, flashing simultaneously in adjacent rooms including a large screen T.V. with what looked like the well known “Baby Einstein” series, a smaller “personal” video screen flashing a numbers and letters game and, finally, a soundless T.V. monitor in the kitchen with a popular daytime program for an adult audience. </p> <p>Soon, I was having some difficulty sorting out what sounds were coming from which direction and who was actually watching or interacting with these electronic devices.</p> <p>In order to conduct my educational program it was necessary to turn off the excess stimuli in order to focus on the task at hand.  Once the devices were off and a very efficient nanny whisked the little ones away I had a sense of personal relief.  The lack of sound and visual activity was palpable.</p> <p>Coincidently, I had come across several research articles on the issue of “T.V. Time” in homes with infants and children and thought it time to take a further look.</p> <p>A New York Times article from 1999 caught my attention when I read a rather stern message from The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) dealing with TV exposure (for infants &amp; children) in the home.  I was reminded of their suggestion to parents “to all but ban television watching for children less than 2 years of age.”  It also suggested that parents fill out a “media history” which would be reviewed by the pediatrician at the next well baby/child visit. At first look, I thought this to be rather harsh and, perhaps, unrealistic.  Then I read on.</p> <p>Given that this article in the AAP’s journal <em>Pediatrics</em> is now 13 years old it seemed obvious that some follow-up research would be available to the public. </p> <p>There certainly has been.  The Center on Media and Child Health at The Harvard University Education Department reviewed a journal article from the <em>American Behavioral Scientist</em> which reviewed the very issue of TV exposure on infants and children (birth -12 yrs.) with the endpoint being TV exposure’s influence on developmental outcomes.  Survey participants were contacted, randomly, by phone and asked a series of questions regarding TV exposure in the home during an average day/evening. </p> <p>The study included households with a total of 756 infants, toddlers and children up to 12 years of age. When asked more specifically what the reasons for the amount of TV viewing, answers included: (0-2yrs): heavy TV exposure was significantly related to the belief that educational TV is important.  In addition, for those children 3-4 years and 5-6 years, respectively, parents were honest in stating that TV was a good form of babysitting, relieving them of having to constantly interact with their child.</p> <p>With completion of this 2005 study, the conclusion revealed: “Parental attitude towards TV viewing and household TV availability were common determinates of heavy TV exposure among young children.”  Finally, the researchers determined that “children in heavy-TV viewing households spent less time reading and were more likely to be unable to read.”</p> <p>To add to this, the AAP published in this month’s journal, <em>Pediatrics</em>, a new wrinkle to the issue.  The article, entitled <em>Background Television in the Homes of US Children.</em> This very current and well designed study looks specifically at times <em>when the TV is on but the child is attending to</em> <em>another activity</em> (my italics). Based on previous research, this background TV exposure is negatively associated with children’s cognitive functioning and social play.</p> <p>The study states that U.S. children (8 mo. To 8 yrs) are exposed to nearly 4 hours of background TV on a typical day.  Younger children and African American children are exposed to more background TV.  Again, this study was conducted by phone interviews with parents who were able to give a fairly accurate number of background TV hour exposures.  It revealed that the average U.S. child was exposed to 232.2 minutes of background TV on a typical day.</p> <p>The final conclusion of the study?  Quoting the journal <em>Pediatrics</em>: “Although recent research has shown the negative consequences associated with background television, this study provides the first nationally representative estimates of that exposure.  The amount of exposure for the average child is startling.  This study offers practitioners potential pathways to reduce exposure.” </p> </div></div></div><section class="field field-name-field-article-categories field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Article Categories:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/articles/parenting-advice-on-technology-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology &amp; Media</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="field field-name-field-video-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above clearfix"> <h2 class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</h2> <ul class="field-items"> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/toddler" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TODDLER</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/toddler/play" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Play and Downtime</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/toddler/play/tv-and-screen-time" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TV and Screen Time</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/preschooler" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">PRESCHOOL</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/preschooler/activities" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Activities and Downtime</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/preschooler/activities/tv-and-screen-time" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TV and Screen Time</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ELEMENTARY</a> </li> <li class="field-item odd"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Technology and Media</a> </li> <li class="field-item even"> <a href="/elementary/technology-and-media/tv-and-screen-time" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">TV and Screen Time</a> </li> </ul> </section> Fri, 28 Jun 2013 23:16:53 +0000 WebAdminKith 32801 at https://www.kidsinthehouse.com https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/toddler/play-and-downtime/tv-exposure-in-infants-children-timing-is-everything#comments