Media education starts early

Everything that moves, flashes and sounds fascinates children. Older siblings typing on cell phones and tablets on which parents wipe their fingers exert a great attraction. Children learn by imitating, and at an ever earlier age they want to use and own digital media themselves.

Children today have access to digital media at an ever earlier age. They are part of the reality of children's and families' lives and have become an indispensable part of the everyday pedagogical life of daycare centers. The use and acquisition of media skills is an important educational task already in early childhood and is therefore also anchored in the state's educational principles as part of the educational mission. It is important for children to handle digital media in an age-appropriate and pedagogically sensible way, while at the same time being given plenty of exercise, time and space to try things out and develop. Building blocks, play figures and picture books encourage imagination and understanding of the world. Shared experiences from singing to sports and playing outdoors are irreplaceable.

Many children can already operate digital media independently. They know how to unlock the smartphone screen, play their favorite videos or take photos. But children first have to learn that not everything they see, read or hear is real. Digital media tempt them to forget about time. They offer far more information and stimuli in a very short time than young children can process. Dealing with digital media therefore comes with opportunities, but also with challenges. Parents need to support children in acquiring media literacy.

In view of the flood of media offerings, even for the youngest children, parents are often unsure how best to deal with them. General bans don't go far. However, parents have a great deal of influence on how they manage the use of digital media. When it comes to media use, it's important to have adult guidance. Also remember that you as parents are important role models.

The following tips can help you with media education:

• Agree fixed rules with your child for media use of TV, computer, game console or smartphone.
• As appropriate is considered a media time of no more than half an hour - and this does not have to be daily.
• Spend screen time with your child together, if possible.
• Talk to your child about the program watched, the story, the game, favorite shows and favorite characters.
• Look for age-appropriate content, age recommendations and age ratings.
• Television, smartphone, tablet or game console do not belong in a child's room.
• Do not use smartphones, tablets, computers, game consoles or TV to keep children occupied so they are quiet.