...And hear what seems like a never-ending chorus of impatient cries coming from the back seat: “Mom! I’m bored! When are we going to be there?” Eventually, they’re asking to use your phone. Stressed out, needing to focus on the road, and without an alternative, you comply.
Don’t worry! We all do this sometimes. Once upon a time we could entertain the kids by counting cars or breaking into song, but those days are gone. Flustered, you hand your phone back to your son, hoping to prevent a meltdown.
In settings like these, your child is using your phone (or computer or tablet) to watch videos, play games (online and offline), take pictures, do schoolwork, and surf the web or social media (even if you wouldn’t ordinarily allow it).
Setting the scene
What to consider
What to discuss
Early Years
Letting Your Child Use Your Device
For when you need to keep them busy on a roadtrip, at the doctors office, or waiting for your food. How to let your kid use your device, safely.
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Setting the Scene
You’re Sitting in Traffic on a Long Car Ride...
What to consider
Your device doesn’t have the same parental controls you set up for your kid
Flip cards for a solution
Problem:
You’re worried that your kids will be able to access inappropriate websites when they use your device.
Solution:
Set up more privacy settings on all your personal devices (like restricted search) in anticipation of these scenarios.
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Problem:
When they use your device, your kids are not governed by an external app that monitors screen time — so instead you need to be the “enforcer.”
Solution:
Establish predefined screen time expectations before letting your kids use your device. Scenarios like the long car ride involve special circumstances, requiring more detailed conversation and mutual understanding.
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Problem:
You’re worried that your kids will scroll through your apps and click on something they shouldn’t.
Solution:
Use Apple’s Guided Access feature so your child can only access one app at a time (and only apps that you have approved). For example, if you enable the Netflix app, your child will only be able to access Netflix, and nothing else.
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Problem:
You’re worried your kids will riddle your device with viruses by visiting unsafe sites.
Solution:
Activate malicious website blocking on your Aura app. This will ensure that your child won't somehow stumble upon sites or pop-ups that could steal your information or install malware on your phone. (Hint: this is very helpful for adults, too.)
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What to discuss
Now... Let's Talk
Let’s talk about privacy
While Aura protects a lot, it’s still important to talk to your kids about online safety:
- Talk to your kids about which apps they can and cannot use. Consider creating a specific app folder that is JUST for your kids in these scenarios.
- Talk to your kids about who they can text, call, and email on your phone — you don’t want them accidentally sending a message to a boss or colleague…. or your ex.
- Explain that your personal information and apps are off limits for them (like your logins, passwords, banking and shopping data, social media accounts, etc.).
- When your children have access to your camera and photos, remember to keep photos they might access family-friendly! If they use your camera, set ground rules in advance (such as handling the camera carefully and not sharing any photos they take without your permission).
Let’s talk about settings
If your device doesn't have any parental control settings in place, this means:
- Your kids can visit any site they want, and watch or read anything they find. Talk about web use expectations that apply whenever they are on your phone. For instance, maybe all online sites are off limits in instances when there’s no supervision.
- Your kids aren’t subject to any screen limits, so talk about setting screen time expectations before handing off the device; this will make the transition easier.
Let’s talk about modeling behavior
The way you use your device will influence how your kid perceives technology and appropriate ways to use it.
- Remember that as parents, we are role models and can influence habits. Create clearly-defined boundaries, and adhere to them. Demonstrate that you can unplug. If you are easily interruptible (or continuously interacting with work contacts online) during time spent with your children, they will believe that digital engagement is more important than in-person communication.
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