1) Don’t panic…
Technology has never moved at a faster pace, so it’s inevitable that children are increasingly playing more sophisticated games than their parents ever did, and using the internet much more effectively. But the most important thing to remember is that the web is a powerful tool that is best used for entertainment and education: there’s no need to treat time spent on it, or playing video games, with suspicion.
2)…but be practical
Of course, there are dangers online just as there are at home or in real life. Make sure you know where children are going online, just as you would make sure you know who they’re playing with. Ask what websites they’re visiting, what their appeal is, and why they like the video games they play. Make sure the computer or console is in a public place, such as the living room or kitchen, so you can see what’s going on. This will reduce the temptation for young people to shut the door on the pleasures of the real world, too. And you might even consider Jacqueline Wilson’s novel Girl in Tears as a starting point for talking about computers with your children.
3) Encourage the effective use of technology…
It’s now almost universally accepted that the use of computers and even video games is beneficial to a child’s development. Not only will they need to know how to use technology when they’re older, but they can also offer a relatively safe opportunity to develop coordination and even meet new people. Pilot schemes in schools have used iPods and Nintendo DSs, so it could be worth talking to teachers about what they’re already using in your child’s school.
4)…but make sure you understand it
Some video games teach children important skills, from cooperation to patience, but others really are just about gorily blowing other people’s heads off. The more you understand about which games your child uses, the more you’ll be able to guide their choices. If they want to join a social network to talk to their friends, try steering them towards s
