Information for Family Members
Your Child and Technology
The use of new and digital technologies is becoming an increasingly prominent aspect of the lives of children, including younger and preschool children. The age in which children begin to use digital technologies is constantly lowering, highlighting the importance of creating an informed discussion about your child and their use of technology.
Awareness of Technology
Importance
It is important that children have an awareness of technology and how it is integrated into their daily lives at home and at child care. Family members play an important role in increasing and encouraging the awareness of technology for their child.
What Can Family Members Do?
Family members can informally discuss with their child the tools and machines they use throughout their day. You could ask your child to name these technologies, and describe what they are used for and why. These might be as simple as using the computer to digitally draw, catching a train, listening to music or watching a DVD.
You could also discuss the use of the technologies they mention and their use in different contexts. For example, your child might discuss how they use a computer to digitally create images, and you could discuss how you use a computer to do your work or communicate with people etc.
Basic Operations and Concepts
Importance
It is important for children to be knowledgeable of and confident in the use of basic technologies. By empowering your children with this knowledge, you will give them a valuable foundation for digital learning and communication which they will undoubtedly develop into the future.
WHAT CAN FAMILY MEMBERS DO?
Family members can take the time to assist their child in using simple and safe technological devices such as computers, the internet, DVD players, and phones. For example, older siblings may help a younger child in using a computer. This may include how to turn the computer on and off appropriately and safely, using programs such as the internet or appropriate games, printing, typing and basic computer navigation.
Appropriate Use of Technologies
Importance
Often, some family members (particularly parents) may be unaware of the way in which their child uses technologies such as the computer and the internet. Family members must monitor and discuss their child’s use of technologies to ensure that they are doing so in a safe and socially appropriate manner.
What Can Family Members Do?
Children should be encouraged to seek the permission of older siblings where appropriate or their parents when using the computer or the internet. By making a responsible person aware, they are creating an honest line of communication and monitoring their usage is made easier and less invasive. Family members should also consider the following when their child is using technologies, particularly digital technologies:
-Ergonomic issues: Appropriate posture and the layout and size of furniture are important in maintaining a child’s physical health and wellbeing.
-Content of internet sites, programs, games, or digital communication methods: Young children must be guided in viewing age appropriate content and in using technologies in an appropriate and socially acceptable manner. This will ensure theemotional and social safety and wellbeing of your child.
-Physical activity: Over usage of technology can be detrimental to the physical health and wellbeing of your children. Family members
should encourage children to engage in physically active experiences, so their daily routine will be more appropriately balanced.
Creating a Positive Partnership with the Centre
Importance
It is important that family members form and maintain a positive relationship and partnership with the Centre. By doing this your child will benefit from a consistent approach to their use and knowledge of technologies. This will also help the Centre in integrating and incorporating appropriate technologies into the daily routine and your child’s diverse learning experiences.
What Can Family Members Do?
Family members are encouraged to discuss their child’s use of technologies with educators or the nominated supervisor. Any social or cultural needs should also be discussed so the Centre can actively manage your child’s use and knowledge of technologies.