SAVVY

How do I help my student make good decisions with technology?

Understand

As "digital natives" our students are often one step ahead of us in regard to technology, especially social media. Caregivers play an important role in helping their students make positive choices and set healthy boundaries with the devices in their lives.

Engage

CLICK IMAGES to review these resources for information on helping your student use technology wisely.

Helping Your Student Make the Best Use of Time Online

Teenagers spend an average of nine hours a day online, and many parents worry about the impact of screen time on their children. Explore ways parents can embrace the philosophy of “connected parenting” and help students be safe online and make the most of new media and technology.

Tips for Parenting in the Digital Age

​​In a world where learners are "growing up digital," it's important to help them learn healthy concepts of digital use and citizenship. Caregivers play an important role in teaching these skills.

Teaching Kids to Be Smart About Social Media

Most teens use some form of social media and have a profile on a social networking site. Many visit these sites every day. There are plenty of good things about social media — but also many risks and things kids and teens should avoid. They don't always make good choices when they post something to a site, and this can lead to problems.

Communicate

Here are some questions to consider asking your student to spark conversation about this topic.

K-5

  • Did you use social media (or play an online game, text, watch videos) today? Tell me about what you liked or didn’t like about it.

  • How do you feel about how much time our family spends on devices? Is there anything you would change?

  • Have you seen or heard anything online that bothered or worried you? Tell me about it.


6-12

  • In what ways is being connected “almost constantly” both positive and negative?

  • What do you think life was like for teens before technology?

  • Do you say and share things using technology (social media, texting, etc.) that you would not share in person? How so?

  • Is there anything about your technology habits you would like to change and if so, what would that be?

  • I know parents often worry about their teens being “addicted” to technology or young people losing their social skills because of all the technology. What’s your take on these concerns?


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