As we get further into this period of online learning and with the Easter break nearly upon us it is timely that I remind and share with you some advice and guidance to ensure the safety of young people online. Changes to routines, and possibly more ‘free time’, more screen time, technologies and access to the internet…here is our guide to finding a balance.

Is all screen time a problem? How much screen time is too much?

News and social media coverage often focus on the negatives, and while there are issues we need to be aware of, it is important to keep these in context: Andrew Przybylski, Director of Research at the Oxford Internet Institute (OII) explains the main issues in this article. This recent report from the University of Oxford, suggests that moderate use of technology can be good for health - the issue is confusing and it is important that our families feel supported. This term, we have invited parents into school to share information about our digital strategy and to feedback and discuss the issues facing young people online through our ‘Connected families forum’. We look forward to sharing the key points of our digital strategy and our new policy for Digital Safeguarding early in 2020.

So, how much screen time is too much? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) sets out its recommendations at key stages in child development. As adults, we can also moderate our use and be that important role model. It would, however, be a mistake not to consider how and where the device or technology is used. Consumption is sometimes frowned upon but is really dependent on the quality. Interactive activities and ‘gamified learning’ have their benefits in moderation, and being immersed in authoring and creating content on devices cast a new light on the use of devices.

Top tips

➲ Activities - plan offline activities during the holiday - simple activities indoors and out provide a distraction and variety from device overload;

➲ Caution - store and charge devices in communal areas, taking an ‘over the shoulder’ approach will give you a good idea of how your children are using their devices. Keep devices away from secluded areas and bedrooms where possible;

➲ Informed - keep ahead of the game, use the parent section from Common Sense Media to get quick snapshots of the latest apps and crazes and screen books, films, games and TV shows for key themes and content ahead of time.

➲ Limit - setting boundaries and limits or using a timetable can be an effective way of scheduling time for ‘tech time’ and limits can lead to better self-regulation;

➲ Talk - take an active interest in how your children are engaging with technology, and the issues they are facing online can put your mind at ease and open an ongoing dialogue;

Setting limits and controls on devices

➲ If you are using Microsoft devices at home, then Windows 7, 8 and 10 have built-in functions for parents to help monitor the use of the device. You can find guidance here.

➲ If you are using Google or Andriod devices, you can set up parental controls and monitoring using Google Play parental controls. You can find guidance here.

➲ If you are using Apple devices, you can set up parental controls and monitoring on devices by using ‘Screentime’.

Set up Screen Time - https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208982

Support for families - https://www.apple.com/families/

Parental Controls for iOS mobile devices - https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304

Parental Controls for macOS devices - https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/

➲ Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media - https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ navigate to the parent section

Common Sense Media - Resources for Families during the Corona Virus Pandemic https://www.commonsensemedia.org/resources-for-families-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic

Family Agreement - https://www.commonsensemedia.org/family-media-agreement

➲ Childnet

https://www.childnet.com/resources/screen-time-and-healthy-balance-quick-activities