Using gadgets and technology effectively with your child
Our children are born into a world where tablets, smart phones, video games, computers and television are all part of a family’s daily routine and life. Children are becoming computer-literate at a younger age. There are benefits to using technology together with your child, such as:
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Increased opportunity for parent/child interaction
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Children can benefit developmentally from the many of the educational games/apps/programmes available
As parents it is important that we control our child’s use of technology so that:
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Children use and select appropriate apps for their age range
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We monitor the amount of screen time our children have each day
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Children are kept safe from the hidden dangers of the internet

Getting the balance right
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Introduce your child to tablets when the time is right for you and them
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Use the tablet alongside your child
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Develop routines for using the tablet
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Choose appropriate apps for your child
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Make sure you are thoroughly familiar with the apps your child uses
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Think about apps as you would toys or books and select the correct age range.
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What else can your tablet do? Together use the camera/video to explore their environment inside and out and talk about what they can see.
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Link tablet play with non-digital play
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Turn the tablet off an hour or so before bedtime
Have a look at the useful links below for more information about managing technology with your child.
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DadPad app | Essential guide for new dads