IT Tips for Parents

Tips to monitor your child/ren's media exposure

During the holidays, many children may have been exposed to concerning content on news and social media, such as the recent bushfire coverage. Useful tips include:

• Calmly ask children what they’ve heard about recent news events and find out the extent of their exposure.
• Keep in mind children may have seen content which was outdated, repetitious or untrue.
• Confirm with children what really happened, keeping your language simple, honest and age-appropriate.
• Ask children how the media content makes them feel, and talk to them about what fun or soothing activities you can all do to feel better.
• Set reasonable, age-appropriate limits on media exposure.
• Help children identify news sources which are accurate and respectful.
• If children are concerned about the news, draw their attention to stories of strong, resilient communities and people doing good things to help make the situation better. Talk with children about what steps you can all take to help, such as raising money, volunteering and writing ‘thank you’ messages to the fire-fighters.
  
  For helpful tips about setting family rules for tech use see Dolly’s Dream Parent Hub. This site is also useful in supporting children to show respect and kindness online and how to ask for help if something goes wrong.