How Parents Can Lead by Example in Family Screen Time

As we navigate the digital age’s complexities, parents’ vital yet often overlooked role in modelling proper technology use becomes apparent. This role gains importance during family times, as our engagement choices influence our children’s digital habits. Like a small act of cultural creation, each decision shapes our family’s collective technology approach.

The winter holiday season presents a unique opportunity for this. Instead of isolating with individual screens, families can embrace shared experiences. Engaging in physical media, such as board games, records, or books, or collectively watching a movie offers a communal experience rarely found in solo screen use. This isn’t just about reducing screen time; it’s about choosing activities that promote unity and interaction.

This method reflects a broader theme in technology: balancing connectivity with presence. Striving for this balance in personal and family digital interactions is essential. By selecting activities that demand group involvement, parents show the importance of being together. This approach values shared experiences over solitary screen time without demonizing the latter.

Communal activities also create opportunities for discussions that individual device use doesn’t allow. Watching a movie together, for instance, can lead to conversations about its themes, characters, and narratives, enhancing family bonds and fostering critical thinking. The significance lies not only in watching but also in the ensuing dialogue.

The choices we make during family time are powerful lessons for our children. By emphasizing shared experiences and a balanced approach to technology, we enjoy meaningful moments together and teach vital life skills. Ultimately, we must show, not just tell, how to thoughtfully and intentionally navigate the digital world.

Daniel Kilback
ICT Manager