An app cannot replace your lap

Internetmatters.org has produced a website filled with online safety advice for preschool children. They have suggested simple things for you to try to enable your child to be safer while using technology. They have developed a guide to managing screen time, a safe checklist and produced some tips to follow.

The government thinks parents need to be with their children while using technology as its use amongst under fives has increased dramatically. They believe around 54% of 3- and year olds now own their own device and spend over 6 hours online a week. Less than half of parents believe the benefits of the internet outweigh the risks.

As a preschool we believe real life interactions far outweigh the benefits of using technology, reading a story, having a cuddle and answering and asking questions about the story if far better for a child’s development than watching an online story. Being outside exploring the environment, running with their friends and finding a mini beast cannot be replaced by technology.