Ongoing research shows there are both positives and negatives developmentally when it comes to using screens. 

Benefits: 

• Opportunities to promote creativity and learning
• Language development
• Improvement of numeracy and literacy skills
• Greater understanding of their world
• Development of digital skills

Challenges:

• Impact on children’s ability to control their emotions
• Can reduce the desire to engage in social interactions which are vital for development
• Risk of exposure to inappropriate content

There are lots of things you can do to help your child navigate their online experiences and to develop healthy habits. 

Supporting Strategies:

• Set digital rules together
• Stay engaged in their screen time interests 
• Set a good example of your screen time habits
• Use tools to manage their access to content online
• Talk about the risks of going online 
• Encourage your child to talk to you about anything they encounter which doesn't seem safe or makes them uncomfortable
• Make sure none of their personal details are shared online; use avatars and usernames which don't directly identify them 

Supporting Sites

Here are some really useful websites which give you a wealth of information for children of all ages.  The benefits and challenges of the online world are constantly changing; these sites are a great way to find up-to-date information whenever needed. 

Internet Matters   

UK Safer Internet Centre

Childnet