Loneliness: causes, warning signs, help and how parents can provide support

Municipal integration centers help with arrival

Furnishing the baby room made easy

The rights of biological fathers are strengthened and the regulations on contesting paternity are revised

From loneliness in children to dealing with money in partnerships and growing herbs - the current issue of our newsletter is all about topics that affect families in NRW. Not subscribed yet? Subscribe now and never miss an issue!

NRW offers one-week learning camps during the fall break. The free offer promotes the talents and self-confidence of pupils from year 8 onwards. Find out about the current dates and conditions now.

How parents recognize alarm signs

Children between the ages of 3 and 6 experience an exciting time full of discoveries and adventures. Digital media is already part of everyday life for the little ones - from their favorite film and drawing apps to playful online learning opportunities. But how much television and media consumption is okay at this age? This is a question that concerns many parents. However, it is not only the duration of media use that is important, but also the selection of content. Which programs and apps are really age-appropriate? Which films and videos promote your child's development and which could convey inappropriate messages? Finding the right approach to media is certainly not always easy. The variety on offer is overwhelming and it is often difficult to know what content is suitable for your child. Through targeted media education, you as parents can lay important foundations for a healthy approach to media right from the start. In this way, you can guide your child in age-appropriate and small steps in the sensible use of media. In this topic block, you will learn how you can positively influence your child's media behavior. Grow together as a family and learn how digital media can be meaningfully integrated into everyday life.

Children between the ages of 6 and 10 are increasingly developing their own interest in digital media. Whether it's watching TV together, immersing themselves in exciting computer games or even getting their first cell phone - media is becoming increasingly important at this stage of life. But how much screen time is still acceptable? And when does it make sense to have your own cell phone? The balance between fascination and responsibility is not always easy to find. As a parent, you are faced with the task of balancing your child's media use while at the same time paying attention to potential dangers such as media addiction and cybergrooming. Targeted media education is the key to teaching your child how to use digital content safely. So that your child learns early on how to use their cell phone and other digital devices responsibly. As a parent, you can help your child develop a healthy and reflective relationship with media that encourages fun and exploration, but also protects them from potential dangers. Here you will find valuable tips and information to help you guide your child through this important development phase. Read how you can set rules for media use together and how you can support your child in using digital media sensibly and safely.

Digital media is becoming increasingly important for children aged between 10 and 16 as they get older. They communicate via social networks such as Instagram and TikTok, get information online and follow the content of influencers. However, intensive media use also harbors dangers: Media addiction and cybergrooming are risks that children can come into contact with. In addition, unrealistic ideals of beauty propagated on social media can have a negative impact on self-image and mental health. As parents, you have the important task of supporting your child in this sensitive phase of life and helping them to develop a healthy approach to media. Comprehensive media education is particularly important in this age group. It enables you to empower your child to critically scrutinize digital content and protect themselves from the dangers of the digital world. In this focus topic, you will find practical tips and valuable suggestions on how you can guide your child through this exciting but also challenging phase of life. You will learn how to develop strategies together to positively shape your child's media use and strengthen their media skills .