Better Digital Parenting 2024 CyberSafeKids - Manual / Resource - Page 9
B e tte r D i g i t al Paren ting
C y b e r Sa fe K i d s
Getting the Basics Right:
Setting Ground Rules
Be the best role model
for your child.
Modelling behaviour is the most powerful
way you can influence your child’s behaviour.
If there is a rule about no phones at the
dinner table – that means for everyone!
Using your phone at the dinner table (is
it really that important?) may send very
mixed messages.
As parents or guardians, we can justify our
use of screens at the dinner table by saying
that “it’s for work” or “it’s important”, but
what young people are doing online is also
very important to them.
› This is really about modelling behaviour, so
ask yourself…can it wait?
› Be conscious of how many times you’re
picking your phone up and looking at the
screen in their presence.
› Avoid relying on screens to keep
your children occupied: this confuses
messaging on healthy habits.
› There may be different rules for you as
the parent when it comes to internet use,
as for adults generally in life: this must be
discussed and explained to children.
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