TLDR:
Key Points:
- A therapist shared her 5 ‘non-negotiable’ rules for technology with her kids.
- The rules include no personal devices in rooms with closed doors, no cell phones before age 12, no social media before 16, screens are the smallest part of their day, and communication via tech should be like in real life.
Many parents worry about the impact of technology on their children, and therapist Andrea Brambila shared her approach to setting firm boundaries around technology use. She allows her kids access to technology, but with strict rules in place. The rules include no personal devices in rooms with closed doors to ensure transparent use, no cell phones before 12 to protect developing brains, no social media before 16 to limit exposure to online content, screens being the smallest part of their day to prioritize other activities, and communication via tech should mirror real-life interactions for social skills development.
Brambila emphasized the importance of setting these boundaries to protect her children from the negative consequences of technology overuse. She also highlighted the need for ongoing communication with children about these rules and the rationale behind them. Commenters have praised her sensible approach to managing technology use in her household.
Research shows that underage use of social media is prevalent among children, raising concerns among parents about the content their children are exposed to online. Brambila’s rules align with broader concerns regarding the impact of technology on children’s physical health, sleep, and concentration. By setting clear boundaries and maintaining open communication, Brambila aims to create a balanced and healthy relationship between her children and technology.