At Monkey Puzzle High Wycombe, we know that screens are part of everyday life, even for little ones. Whether it’s watching a favourite cartoon, playing a game, or video-calling grandparents, technology can be fun and educational—but it also comes with some risks. Even young children need a bit of guidance to help them stay safe online.
Toddlers and preschoolers can:
• Click on things by accident
• See content that’s not suitable for their age
• Make surprise purchases (it really happens!)
• Get so used to screens that turning them off can be tricky
The good news is that small habits can make a big difference.
Watch together
If you can, be nearby when your child is using a tablet or phone. You’ll see what they’re doing, and it’s a good opportunity to talk about what they’re watching.
Choose child-friendly apps
There are lots of apps designed specifically for young children. Safe, ad-free, and easy to use. If you’re not sure where to start, ask us at Monkey Puzzle Enfield, we’re happy to share our favourites.
Set limits that suit your family
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, but for children under five, an hour of screen time a day is usually plenty. Balance is key: make sure there’s plenty of outdoor play, rest, and other activities.
Turn off autoplay
Autoplay can lead little ones to videos that aren’t suitable. Switching it off in the settings is simple and helps you stay in control.
Use screens in shared spaces
Keeping tablets or phones in family areas makes it easier to supervise and helps children see technology as something we use together.
Talk about what they see
Even little children can understand more than we think. Simple phrases like:
• “We only watch things that are safe.”
• “If something looks strange or scary, come and tell me.”
Use parental controls
Most devices let you block content, add passwords for purchases, and set screen time reminders. A few minutes of setup can save a lot of stress later.
We’re not saying screens are bad, they’re part of life now. But with a bit of supervision and guidance, children can enjoy them safely. At Monkey Puzzle High Wycombe, we’re always here to chat with families about screen time, apps, or anything digital. Helping your child use technology safely is just as important to us as their play, learning, and development.