We want to give discussion a space
Internet
The use of the internet has become a matter of course for older children and adolescents.
Whether at home on the PC or on the go with the smartphone, you are quickly online, researching for school, communicating with friends, downloading music, finding out about your hobbies or playing in a seemingly endless world.
In order for children to be able to use the internet safely, they need parental guidance and rules to help them deal with the internet in the beginning. But adolescents also often need support, for example when it comes to correctly assessing entries in social networks or relationships with internet acquaintances.
Parents could discuss the following questions with each other:
- From what age can children surf the internet?
- Which websites are recommendable?
- Are there special search engines for children?
- What are the dangers on the internet and how can I protect my children from them?
You can order information material on the Internet here.
Smartphone
The smartphone has become the most important tool for communication.
Children and adolescents also use the multifunctional device to write messages, listen to music, take photos or to be able to be online.
There is much to be said for children learning how to use smartphones at an early age. Children and parents can reach each other at any time, which reassures both sides.
But in addition to the many positive aspects, there are unfortunately also risks, such as high costs due to in-app purchases, which children can overlook or misjudge.
Parents could discuss the following questions with each other:
- Are smartphones already useful for the youngest and which apps are suitable for children?
- Does it always have to be the latest model?
- What should be considered when using WhatsApp?
- How do I set up the smartphone so that it is safe for children?
You can order information material on the topic of smartphones here.
Digital Games
Digital games are very popular with children and adolescents.
The favourite games of children aged 6 to 13 include football simulation games, car racing games or action and strategy games, simulation and skill games.
Having fun, competing with others, relieving boredom or immersing themselves in a foreign world are the main reasons why children like to play on the computer or the smartphone.
It can become problematic if too much time is spent in front of the PC, the smartphone or with the console, or if children are involved with games whose violent or frightening depictions cannot yet be coped with. Especially when it comes to digital games, parents are often unsure because they are not familiar with their children's gaming world.
Parents could discuss the following questions with each other:
- Which digital games are recommended for my children?
- Can digital games create violence?
- At what playing time does it become problematic?
- What do the USK age ratings mean?
Information on the topic of digital games can be found here: usk.de und www.spieleratgeber-nrw.de
Social Networks
Social networks are mainly used by adolescents today to communicate with friends and maintain friendships.
Self-presentation on Instagram or TikTok and their own effect on others, as well as exchanges with peers about their areas of interest, are important phases in their development.
Children and young people need to know how to protect their personal data and should learn to deal responsibly with others. Besides the enriching aspects of social networks, life on the net also brings problems, one of which is the issue of cyber-bullying.
Parents could discuss the following questions with each other:
- At what age does it make sense to have a profile on a social network?
- Are there special social networks for children?
- Should I be friends with my children on social media to get an insight?
- My child is being bullied on the internet, who can I contact?
You can find information on the topic of social networks here.
Television
Television is still the leading media in many families.
70% of boys and girls aged 6 to 13 watch television every day or almost every day (KIM Study 2020). Television is used for entertainment, relaxation and information.
More and more children have their own TV or tablet on which they watch YouTube or YouTube Kids. Many families subscribe to streaming services such as Disney+, Sky, Netflix or Amazon Prime, which provide individual access to film and TV content. Having their own device or streaming service profile can result in uncontrolled movie and TV viewing.
Parents need to be aware of the children's film and television viewing habits and preferences. Knowing the children's favourite shows and TV heroes is an advantage.
Elterntalk wants to support mothers and fathers in exchanging views with other parents about their children's television habits.
Parents could discuss the following questions with each other:
- How much television is sensible and what content scares children?
- What do age labels mean for cinema films?
- What are parental control settings for streaming services and where can I set them?
- Are children allowed to have their own TV or tablet?
You can order information material on the topic of television here.
