Everything in life usually has a positive side that, taken to an extreme, can become negative. Nowadays, using cell phones, tablets, internet or video games could be a good thing, and also a bad thing, especially for the youngest in the house. That is why we consider it so important to know these useful methods to control the use of technology in adolescents.

Let's not forget that certain latest generation devices have a high addictive component. If it is already difficult for adults to control them, this factor is magnified in young people.

The fact is that, more than controlling, what we, as adults and teachers, must encourage is the healthy and balanced use of technologies. In this way, the benefits are maximized and the risks are minimized.

How to control the use of technology in adolescents

Before getting into "wars" over the use of cell phones or computers, it is important to create a pleasant and safe environment in which everything can be discussed. If in the classroom or at home the adolescent finds a place to talk and agree on measures, it will be easier to apply these methods.

Share technology with the young person

As adults, it is interesting to spend quality time with children. For example, with technology. Let's choose a video game they like and enjoy a good time together. It is an ideal way to share, chat, get to know each other better, experience emotions, learn together and, above all, motivate them.

Socialization

Let's use technology as a method to socialize, not to isolate. Applied to the school or the family, it is obvious that it makes it easier to keep in touch with children, parents, etc.

However, video games, for example, also help young people to stay connected, either by meeting at someone's house to play together or remotely. This, in the right measure, and always with known and reliable people, is a notable advantage.

In addition, by playing with friends, we can give children a more positive experience of technology. They interact, laugh, compete and enjoy themselves, so they understand the benefits of video games, instant messaging apps, etc.

But limits must be observed so that children do not overdo it in the use and enjoyment of technology.

Use as a means of information

We must take advantage of the benefits of technology so that teenagers understand it as a means of information. However, we already know that, nowadays, there are many problems of disinformation through the Internet and social networks: the famous fake news.

However, for our part, it is important for them to understand that the large network of networks is an interesting source of information for everything from discovering a book to finding sources for school work.

Time control

In any case, it is advisable to control the time, especially with those young people who have problems not to overdo it in front of the cell phone or computer. Some could spend all day in front of the screen. But we, as parents, educators and teachers, have to be attentive and make them understand that excesses, in this case with technology, are never positive in any area of life.

Talking about technology

It is a good idea to talk openly with adolescents. By laying our cards on the table, both adults and teens can discuss the pros and cons of using technology, reach agreements and, ultimately, create an agreed-upon plan for the proper use of technology.

In addition to these 5 useful methods to control the use of technology in adolescents, at the international bilingual school Logos International in Las Rozas de Madrid we have a group of pedagogues and specialized professionals such as Isabel Ortín, head of the Guidance Department, who can help you with this thorny issue that worries so many parents.