Episode #3. TECHFAST for Parents and why policing of social media should not be on Parents. Let's do something together. Isabella Ferguson, Podcaster, Mother, Lawyer

The issue of children's tech access and the impact of social media effect on brain health and and the potential for exploitation are significant concerns that can't be managed by parents alone. Here are some thoughts on navigating these challenges:

1. Community Support: It's essential to recognise that the responsibility for managing children's digital consumption doesn't fall solely on parents. Schools, tech companies, and the broader community play crucial roles. Advocating for digital literacy programs in schools and supporting legislation that protects children online are ways to extend the responsibility beyond the household.
2. Tech Companies' Accountability: There's a growing call for tech companies to design products with children's well-being in mind. Features like robust parental controls, content filtering, and usage limits can help parents manage their children's screen time more effectively. Voicing concerns to these companies and supporting businesses that prioritize child safety can drive change.
3. Education and Dialogue: Educating children about the risks and realities of their digital environments is key. Open dialogues about the potential for addiction, privacy issues, and the psychological effects of social media can empower children to make informed decisions about their tech use.
4. Seeking Professional Help: In cases where tech addiction significantly impacts a child's daily life, seeking advice from a pediatrician or a child psychologist can provide tailored strategies to address the problem. These professionals can offer support in creating a balanced approach to technology that considers the child's developmental needs.
5. Building Alternatives: Encouraging activities that don't involve screens—such as sports, reading, and outdoor play—can help reduce children's reliance on technology for entertainment. Creating tech-free zones and times can also promote engagement in non-digital pursuits.
6. Parental Self-Care: Acknowledging the difficulty of this task is crucial. Seeking support from other parents, online forums, or local community groups can provide emotional relief and practical tips. Remember, you're not alone in this struggle, and sharing experiences can lead to discovering new strategies and coping mechanisms.

Learn more in the BEING SEEN book link here:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Being-Seen-Parenting-Digital-Mastering/dp/0999099736

www.profselenabartlett.com
Isabella Ferguson's podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/de-stress-for-success-with-isabella-ferguson/id1704110437

Please join the #BEINGSEEN movement to safeguard children on-line.

Buy the book www.profselenabartlett.com and pass the word to as many parents as possible.

https://www.amazon.com/Being-Seen-Master-Parenting-Digital/dp/0999099736/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PZH7KRLUDEPY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CICkiFwRMe-5m1Zp0oWoR5Ln50Fl7i0ZQIgGDxKiUF8.pl_L_7uy2rp8KOfJpxEBEzvU5PfqTEQRg3O1zDe4Y_Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=being+seen+selena+bartlett&qid=1709953306&sprefix=being+seen%2Caps%2C321&sr=8-1