Technology in children's rooms: finding the balance

Categories: Advice

The use of screens and new technologies in general by children is an ongoing debate in many families. Indeed, while there are now objects and services specifically designed for younger users, some parents are still reluctant. And for good reason, we now have enough perspective to realize that technologies can have a real impact on our children, at different levels. So, how do we find the right balance? How can we integrate technology into children's rooms without losing control?

How does technology affect children?

Today, screens, video games, social networks, and other activities related to new technologies have a real impact on young people, such as:

  • Increased sedentary behavior: Children are less active, play less outdoors, and socialize less, which obviously impacts both their development and well-being.
  • Cybersecurity risks: Children who use a tablet or smartphone may end up communicating with anyone and sharing all kinds of information without realizing the risk they are taking.
  • An addictive and overstimulating effect: We now know that screen activities have both an addictive and overstimulating effect on the brain. Children quickly become dependent on this type of activity, which can lead to real conflicts at home, but also affect their sleep, for example.

Even before considering integrating new technology objects into your children's room, it is therefore important to be well aware of the risks.

Setting up a child's bedroom

Before integrating technology into your child's room, you need to first design a practical and pleasant space.

The bed

The choice of bed depends primarily on the space you have available and your preference. For a change from the traditional single bed, why not opt for a loft bed? The children's loft bed is perfect for furnishing a small room. Elevated, loft beds allow you to slide storage units or even a desk underneath. With a single loft bed in their room, your child will have even more space. You can also opt for a loft bed with an integrated desk or a simple version like our white and solid wood Landes loft bed.

Whether you choose a children's loft bed or any other style of model, it will form the basis of the room's furnishings.

Storage

In addition to your child's bed, storage elements will also take their place in the room. Dressers, wardrobes, as well as toy chests and storage baskets will all have their place. Moreover, you can opt for installing a small desk for doing homework, but also for many other activities.

Integrating technology (or not) into a child's room

The question of integrating technology into a child's room arises from a very young age. Indeed, while parents can start early with the use of a video baby monitor, there are now objects dedicated to very young children. The good news is that these now allow for strict control and notably avoid any internet connection. It's as children grow older that the problem arises.

Buying a smartphone from primary school age, providing a tablet, computer, or even a television with a game console, all these objects can easily find their way into children's rooms. Unless you implement strict rules, your children will sooner or later bring new technologies into their room. But don't panic, it is entirely possible to accept this while finding a balance to benefit from the best of new technologies.

Don't deprive, but educate

The web is a fantastic window to the world that can provide access to millions of pieces of information, social networks can be fabulous tools for creation and sharing, video games can be opportunities to experience extraordinary adventures... Demonizing new technologies means going against what appeals to children, but also to adults today. The idea is not to only point out the negative aspects and deprive your child of this type of experience, but rather to educate them about the dangers of technology.

Just as you educate your child about dangers in the street or in the kitchen, the same applies to technology. So be patient, present, and set clear limits that will allow your child to safely discover this new world that is opening up to them.

For example, setting up dedicated times for connected devices, as well as a media curfew, can be a good way to regulate the use of these objects at home. Parental control tools also allow you to easily monitor and control your children's activity, even with a game console or tablet in their room.

Like all tools, new technologies can be used in many different ways. Our advice is to stay informed about trends and innovations to avoid feeling lost. If you know how to use these devices, you'll find it much easier to communicate with your child about them and manage their use at home. Finally, don't forget that children see everything, so remember to set an example by putting down your smartphone as often as possible at home.