Set clear expectations
A family agreement is a brilliant way of setting your own boundaries in advance, creating consistent routines, and developing positive habits. It can also evolve as your child’s use and understanding of technology develops. You might want to include the use of countdowns so that children are aware of how much time they have left on devices, or allocate designated screen-free time periods or zones – e.g. in the hour before bedtime or in the bedroom itself.
Decide what is appropriate
Install apps and select webitses, games and videos which are age appropriate. You can use reviews and ratings to help you do this or look on websites like Common Sense Media and NetAware for more information.
Create shortcuts or links for your child to use when browsing the internet and consider setting up parental controls.
Consider how the rules will be applied
Remember that your child will engage with technology in a variety of places, some of which may be without you present, eg school, family or friends houses. Talk to your child about how to keep safe online whereever they may be and reassure them about the different people who are there to help, eg teachers, grandparents etc.
Share your rules with any family or friends who may be caring for your child.
