Always on the cell phone

You know how you have to keep telling your children that they've had enough screen time and it's time to put the cell phone away? But when is the right time to get your child a cell phone? Basically, the later the better! In any case, it is important that your child is mature enough to use a cell phone responsibly. As a rule, a cell phone is not recommended until the age of 12 or older. By then, young people know about data protection and the dangers of the Internet. Before your child gets a cell phone, you should inform them about the risks . For example, your child should know that content that has been shared can no longer be deleted or that certain app purchases can incur high costs. Then set clear rules on how and when the cell phone should be used. For 10-12 year olds, screen time should not exceed one hour per day. For 12-16 year olds, no more than two hours per day. Together with your child, take technical safety precautions such as internet filters and stay in contact with your child. How does your child spend their cell phone time? What are they looking at on the internet? Which apps have they downloaded? It is also important that you teach your child how to use social media safely. Your child should know how to protect their privacy. Make sure that the cell phone is switched off two hours before going to bed in the evening and is not taken into the bedroom. This promotes quality sleep and provides space for healthy sleep rituals. Try to be a role model yourself. Children learn from their parents. Exciting experiences in everyday life also help to make the cell phone less attractive and a cell phone-free time for the whole family can work wonders.

Enjoy your time with and without your cell phone and stay in touch with your child!