First Lady Obama says off limits to Facebook, but how can parents control tech use with their kids?

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New Jersey, New Jersey, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) February 11, 2011 -- In an interview with Matt Lauer, First Lady Michelle Obama stated her children are not on Facebook, yet many parents struggle to reign in their children's use of technology. What can parents do?

"Parents are often at a loss when it comes to monitoring and limiting their children's technology use,” says John Kriger, of Kriger Consulting, a New Jersey consultant speaking extensively on the subject of technology over use, abuse and addiction. "There are things parents can do to help their children develop healthy habits in the use of technology and the Internet. Technology is a vital part of our lives, so we all need to learn to use it effectively. " Kriger stated. Here are six things he recommends parents can do to help their children develop positive habits in their use of technology.

1. Put boundaries on the recreational use of technology, limiting its use to no more than an hour or two per day for adolescents, and less time for younger children. Encourage, and make time for face-to-face communication which is vital in learning to read social cues and developing effective communications.
2. Create a technology free zone, free from texting, iPod use, and phone use during family meals. Stronger and healthier family relations are built through interpersonal interactions. Meals are perfect time for this to occur.

3. For young children, use electronics as a reward, not as a punishment. When electronics are used as a punishment it actually elevates the importance of the device. Reward positive behavior in young children with short opportunities to play electronic games.
4. Don't allow cell phones, games, or computers in the bedroom of adolescents and young children; especially after they go to bed. Educators often report that children are unable to function in school due to their staying up late texting their friends or playing electronic games.

5. Engage children in reading, board games, and non-electronic activities. In some cases when children are conditioned to technology usage they may find these type of activities boring and lacking stimulation. This is exactly why they need them. Children need to learn to focus, relax, win and lose, and spend time with others in social interaction.
6. Stop the use of all technology, especially gaming, 1 to 2 hours before bedtime. Often when children play highly stimulating games prior to bed they will be unable to go to sleep or stay asleep. This relaxation time allows for the child to become calm and relaxed from the stimulation of electronic games.

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