Screens have become part of our children’s day: in learning, keeping in touch with family and playing. Parents often ask us not “Should we allow screens?” but “How can we make them useful and safe?” In this article, we share simple practical steps we use at school that families can also apply at home.
1. Agree on family rules before using a device
Children follow rules they understand and help to create. Sit together, agree on a few clear rules, write them down and display them:
- When devices may and may not be used; for example, no screens at mealtimes or during the hour before bed.
- Where the device is used: in the living room rather than the bedroom.
- What to do after seeing something upsetting or frightening: tell us immediately, without fear of punishment.
2. Screen time suited to each age
- Under two: It is preferable to avoid screens except for video calls with family.
- Ages two to five: A maximum of one hour a day of calm educational content, preferably watched together.
- Age six and above: Set consistent, balanced times that do not replace sleep, movement, homework or free play.
3. Safety settings: five minutes to protect your child
- Enable parental controls on the device: Screen Time on Apple devices or Family Link on Android.
- Use YouTube Kids instead of regular YouTube for young children.
- Disable in-app purchases or require parental approval.
- Choose apps yourselves and try them before your child uses them.
4. From viewer to creator
One of the best uses of technology is for children to create something: a digital drawing, a story recorded in their own voice or a small project using visual coding for children. After each session, ask “What did you learn? What did you make?” to turn screen time into learning time.
5. Set an example before setting a rule
Children learn more from what we do than what we say. When we put our phones aside while talking with them, eating together or reading a story, we show them that people matter more than devices.
Technology is a wonderful tool in the hands of a child who understands its limits and knows that their family is beside them.
We are here for you
Raising children is a partnership between home and school. The technical support team at Jewels is happy to help you configure safety settings and parental controls on your children’s devices. Please contact us.