When trying to keep up with all the demands of our world, it can be easy to forget to make time for family. Research has proven that family bonding is crucial.
Children with strong family ties show positive behaviors, high self-esteem, emotional resilience, and better academic achievement.
Technology is a major part of our world, and it is important to remember to use it wisely. Parents often grapple with how much screen time to allow their children, and what we really need to focus on is how our children are using their devices.
If children are turning to their devices every time they’re bored, or in a bad mood, for instance, there may be a problem.
While technology has its downfalls, here are some fun and engaging ways that we can embrace technology to improve our bonds as a family.
The Benefits of Using Technology to Communicate and Bond with Family Members
Technology allows us to be together, even if we’re far apart. Messaging platforms such as Facebook Chat and WhatsApp give us the means to share our thoughts, and photos, and have video calls with just one click.
Some families create Facebook Groups to have a virtual ‘space’ for pictures and stories. While it’s not completely secure, you can adjust the privacy settings to ensure that only your family is able to access your group’s page.
When you are apart from family members, the holidays can be difficult. Connecting through technology allows us to visit family virtually.
During video calls, we can bond with family by playing games, watching movies, or cooking meals simultaneously in our kitchens. Once you’re having fun, the distance won’t mean a thing.
Strategies for Using Technology in a Positive Way
It would be impossible to connect with your family living apart from you without the use of technology. For those who are closer to home, technology can come in the way of quality family time.
Here are some strategies to use technology in a positive way:
Set Boundaries
With some clear ground rules, your children will know exactly when to expect screen time, and when it is time to put their devices down.
Try not to be authoritative, though. Have a family meeting and listen to what the kids have to say. After discussion, you can write down reasonable rules to guide your technology usage as a family.
Encourage Non-Tech Activities
It’s all about balance. Show your children that there are such amazing activities to do that do not involve technology.
It doesn’t have to be anything too crazy, it could even be the simplest things — pull out your favorite National Geographic, or tell them a funny joke.
Go for family hikes on the weekends and discover new places together. Getting involved in non-tech activities will result in less screen time.
Designate Tech-Free Times and Spaces
Creating tech-free times and spaces will help children set boundaries with their use of technology. The smartphone doesn’t need to come to the dinner table.
The tablet isn’t allowed in the living room when you are enjoying some family time. The key here is that tech-free times do not equate to fun-free times.
Show children that when they put away their devices, there’s more time for quality family games, conversation, and sharing.
Tips for Parents
At this point, you may be wondering where to start. Here are some tips to help you use technology to strengthen your bonds and communication.
- Lead by example
Show your children that you can unplug, too. There may be a work email or two that you need to respond to after hours.
Set aside short time periods to check up on whatever you need to, and then let it go. And make it intentional.
Explain out loud that your work is done, and now you can put your devices away, unplug, and spend time with your family. Demonstrating how you balance your own use of technology will go a long way.
- Encourage children to use technology productively
When your children are on their devices, what are they doing? Pay attention to what they are doing and help them make the most of their screen time.
If they are aimlessly browsing YouTube, they aren’t learning anything.
Instead, encourage children to research topics that inspire them and download Apps that focus on skill-building, like Quick Maths and Science 360
- Help children understand the importance of balancing their use of technology
We’ve all been there — talking to children when we know they’re not listening. Children tend to shut down if they feel that they are being scolded or overcorrected, which is completely understandable.
When you are explaining the downfalls of too much screen time in your home, choose your words wisely. Make sure that you are not singling out a single child, rather you are discussing the issue.
Depending on their age, you can even cite current research which will help them understand that you are only looking out for their health and well-being.
The Bottom Line
With all the devices in your home, the sounds of calls and notifications may be constant, which can be quite overwhelming.
Using technology in positive ways is necessary for your well-being, and has the potential to strengthen your family’s bonds and communication.
We hope that this article has given you the tools to transform the use of technology in your home.
ALSO READ: The Role of Technology in Fostering Creativity and Imagination in Children
