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20 text terms your kids are using that you need to know

“Over three-quarters of parents say they have to clarify the cryptic text-speak in their children’s texts and emails.” – The Telegraph We all know the basics. LOL (laugh out loud), BRB (be right back) and OMG (Oh My God). But the English language changes every day — as does the tech talk our kids use. … Continued

10 TV shows that will make you wary about giving your kids Netflix

Thought 2017 was a great year for tv on Netflix? Think again! 2018 looks set to be equally impressive, with Netflix pledging $8 billion for new shows debuting this year. But that got us thinking. While tv shows come with age ratings, kids seldom pay attention to them. And all the while, online streaming services … Continued

20 quick ways to stop study time distractions

So, the kids are back at school and the homework has come flooding in. But getting home, preparing dinner plus everything else you have to get through can make juggling the after-school routine challenging. Not to mention you need time to unwind too! On top of that, you have to make sure the kids are … Continued

How to banish homework headaches and screen time squabbles

So, the kids are officially back at school and the homework tasks have started. As have the screen time wars…what to do, what to do… We know. It’s time to set up an after-school routine that minimises your stress levels and gets homework completed without nagging, tantrums and complaints! Kids love routine, even if they … Continued

How to avoid digital overdrive on the family road trip

“When travelling with someone, take large doses of patience and tolerance with your morning coffee.”— Helen Hayes (Now double it if you have kids – Habyts). The family getaway. Nothing but relaxing, family bonding and sunshine to look forward to….HA. We wish. To future parents, please note that family trips away will now consist of … Continued

3 clever ways to stop kids screaming for screen time

We’ve all been guilty of it. You just need two minutes to yourself to get the washing up done so you give your child your tablet to play on. Or you’re out and about and they won’t stop nagging you until you hand over your phone. It’s ok, we’ve all been there. No one prepared … Continued

How to make your kids happier…it’s not what you think

Did you know you spend 3 times longer on websites and apps that make you unhappy than you do on apps that make you happy? Why? And how can you teach your kids not to do the same? What’s currently happening… A Ted Talk from Adam Alter revealed that the average digital media user will … Continued

School-Year Screen-Time Rules from a Teacher

Take it from a middle school teacher and mom: Kids need to manage their online activities — and parents need to help them do it. Article originally published by Commonsensemedia.org in September 2018 as part of Common Sense Media’s Parent Voices series, which provides a platform for opinions about parenting in the digital age. All ideas expressed … Continued

How to Set Screen Rules That Stick

Easy tips for limiting kids’ computer, TV, game, and movie time. Article originally published by Commonsensemedia.org in January 2018. In many homes, getting kids to turn off their cell phones, shut down the video games, or quit YouTube can incite a revolt. And if your kids say they need to be online for schoolwork, you may not know when the research stops and … Continued

The 3 Tech Rules Kids Wish You Would Follow

“Put your phone away when I’m talking to you.”  One assumes this is a parent talking to their child, right? As it turns out, kids think that too.  A key study examining how kids view tech rules and expectations at home reveals kids want tech rules! So let’s cut to the chase and explore the 3 tech … Continued