Accompanying our children in the use of ICT

With proper use, digital technologies can be beneficial for the development and acquisition of basic skills

Mònica Fidelis Pérez de Tudela

Journalist. Project Manager

SOM Salud Mental 360

Although almost all parents are familiar with digital environments and social networks, it does not mean that we know how to introduce or guide our sons and daughters in their use.

A report published by Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona in 2015 explained that responsible, educational, and supervised use of new technologies by children and adolescents can be very beneficial for their development and for acquiring basic skills. Thus, the problem lies not in the tool itself, but in its use or misuse.

Families face significant challenges:

Educating on the use of mobile devices.
Set an example by using responsible and respectful technology at home.
Understanding the workings and codes of new platforms and social networks to anticipate potential risks or conflicts.

Characteristics of family communication in adolescence

To help families guide their children in the healthy use of new technologies, the Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Hospital has developed a ten-point guide to good practices that includes the following recommendations:

Technological devices must be appropriate to the child's developmental level and learning needs.
The opportunities, risks, and rules for using technologies will be discussed with minors.
The technologies will be located in common areas and their use is recommended to be shared with adults.
Time spent connecting with technology should be shared with time spent not connecting.
Teach your children to treat others on social media the way they would like to be treated.
Not all information on the internet is reliable or valid; teach your child to be critical.
Keeping up to date with technological developments will make it easier for you to support your child in their transition.
Be a role model for responsible internet use. Teach your child how you use it.
Stay alert to any situation that may be a symptom of addiction.
Use technology responsibly, and be consistent with the behavior you expect from your child.

Fortunately, there are numerous resources for families designed to help them reflect on their children's use of new technologies and to help them maintain an attitude of respect towards others.