Ten Expert Tips for Raising Tech-Savvy and Tech-Safe Children

When you grew up, there were no iPads, Google phones, Facebook or Snapchat, and you never had to worry about your digital identity or blue light.

But fast-forward to 2017 and you’re now responsible for raising a child whose life will revolve around digital technology, and who will have to be tech-smart, tech-savvy, and tech-safe to survive out there in the wild.

So what are some tips to help you along the way?

We asked for your experiences, and expert Joanne Orlando — an analyst and researcher in technology and learning who has worked as an advisor for the Government, for Apple, and for the children’s television show Play School — for her best pieces of advice.

1. When can I introduce my child to technology?

According to Dr Orlando, Australia generally follows the guidelines put out by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which were updated late last year.

“Those recommendations say kids who are two and younger really shouldn’t be using any screens at all, unless it’s for something like video chatting,” she said.

They do, however, say it’s OK for you to introduce your kids, once they’re about 18 months, to television and other devices so long as you’re there with them, and explaining what they’re seeing.

Children aged two to five can then use a screen for about an hour a day, and once they reach six, it is up to you to decide what’s appropriate.

– Alle McMahon