BIK #DigitalSunScreen summer campaign 2: 6 more tips for families to enjoy quality digital time at home

Dear parents and caregivers, whether you've just returned from your travels and are settling back at home, or you're enjoying a relaxing staycation, the second installment of our #DigitalSunScreen campaign is here to assist you! (If you missed it, read also the first campaign article regarding travel tips).

Our goal is to help you achieve a healthier balance between digital and offline activities while at home. Whether you’re looking to manage screen time more effectively or find positive ways to use technology for your children, we’ve got you covered with the following seven tips.

Essential tips for parents and caregivers: achieving digital balance while at home

#11 Set screen time limits

It's easy to lose track of time spent on devices during the holidays, especially with the lure of games, social media and streaming services. To ensure a balanced routine, it's important to set clear and reasonable daily screen time limits for all family members. This will help to create a structured environment where technology is used purposefully rather than passively. Moreover, following age-appropriate guidelines can help children not only balance online and offline activities, but also develop critical time management and self-discipline skills. 

#12 Create tech-free zones

An easy way to start regulating online time, especially for younger children, is to designate certain areas of your home where digital devices are not allowed. Good options include bedrooms, the dining table or certain parts of the living room. This can open up a conversation with your children about the importance of sleep, eating and playing together. You may also want to reserve some of these areas for specific creative activities (e.g. a drawing corner) to encourage children to explore artistic skills, read or engage in imaginative play without the distraction of digital entertainment.

#13 Make the most of online educational resources

It’s sometimes easy to fall in the trap of thinking that all online activities are harmful for kids, but that’s not true at all! There is a lot of excellent online educational content that can make your child’s free time more enjoyable and enriching. Research some websites, apps, and platforms in your own language that offer fun learning experiences, like picking up a new language, learning to play an instrument, coding, discovering science, or exploring history and geography. This way, you can turn screen time into a chance for them to learn and grow while having fun!

#14 Establish tech-free time

Set specific times during the day or week when everyone in the family agrees to put away their devices, especially hand-held ones. This could be during meals, in the evenings, or on weekends. The goal is to make these times special and use them for meaningful activities. For example, you might enjoy storytelling, looking through photo albums, sharing memories, or playing outside. These moments help strengthen family connections by removing the distractions of digital devices.

#15 Safe online summer gaming

With more free time during the holidays, children are likely to spend more time gaming, especially online, where activity is on the rise. To ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience, you can take a few simple steps. First, check the game ratings to understand age suitability, content warnings, and whether a game allows online interactions. If you have concerns about a game, discuss them calmly with your child and explain why it might not be suitable for them. At the same time, use this opportunity to actively take an interest in the games your child enjoys, which can strengthen your relationship and help you understand their interests. Lastly, encourage open conversations about who they're playing with online and the nature of their interactions. This fosters trust and makes children more likely to report any inappropriate behaviour they encounter.

#16 Lead by example

Don’t forget that children often learn by observing the adults around them, so it’s crucial to set a positive example! Demonstrate responsible digital habits by setting your own guidelines for yourself and showing it to your children. Be consistent with your own device use and prioritise time spent interacting with your family. For example, engage in outdoor activities, physical exercise, and other family-centred activities, and take these opportunities to share your interests with your children. By adhering to these practices, you reinforce the importance of responsible digital behavior for the entire family.

#17 Regularly evaluate and adjust your rules

Since every family is unique, it’s important to periodically review and adjust your digital rules as needed. As your children grow and show increased responsibility, consider easing some restrictions while maintaining a focus on digital accountability. This flexibility helps create a supportive and adaptable digital environment that promotes healthy habits and responsible online behaviour.

We hope these tips have given you some valuable ideas for your free time, whether you're traveling or staying at home this summer. We wish you a wonderful summer with your family, filled with enjoyment and lasting memories!

For more information and tips to help you educate your children in the digital realm:

•  Visit our resource gallery, where we gather videos and educational resources for parents, caregivers and teachers.
• Check our Guide to apps to help you to stay informed about the most popular apps, social networking sites and other platforms that children and young people often use.
• Reach out to your national Safer Internet Centre for direct support, including a helpline that offers children and young people, parents and the general public pieces of advice on how to deal with harmful contact conduct and content.

And if you missed it, read also the first campaign article regarding tips for travelling!