As parents, understanding digital literacy is essential in guiding children to develop a healthy and productive relationship with digital technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT) and the broader digital environment. Early guidance can help children learn to navigate digital spaces safely, responsibly, and effectively, fostering skills that are increasingly crucial for their education, social life, and future careers.

Safety and Security Awareness

Children are exposed to various online risks, such as data privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and harmful content. By understanding digital literacy, parents are better equipped to teach children about online safety practices, like managing personal information and recognizing potentially unsafe interactions or phishing attempts. According to Livingstone et al. parental involvement in digital literacy not only helps reduce risks but also promotes a positive approach to the digital world.

Encouraging Critical Thinking

The digital environment is filled with vast amounts of information, not all of which is credible. Digital literacy empowers parents to teach children how to evaluate sources, distinguish between trustworthy and misleading content, and develop a critical approach to information. This skill is vital, as children need to discern fact from opinion or propaganda in an environment that can be manipulative. Research by Frau-Meigs emphasises that early critical thinking skills fostered through digital literacy can prevent information overload and misinformation from impacting young users.

Promoting Responsible Use and Ethical Behaviour

The IoT and other digital tools have the potential to influence children’s behaviours and habits. Parents who understand digital literacy can instil values of responsible use, like limiting screen time, being respectful in digital communication, and understanding the long-term implications of sharing personal content. Boyd highlights that digital literacy includes recognizing the digital footprint one leaves and understanding the consequences of digital actions, which is an essential skill parents can pass on.

Preparing for a Digital Future

Digital literacy in parents allows them to expose children to beneficial uses of technology, such as educational tools, creativity applications, and problem-solving platforms. This guidance supports children in seeing technology as a means of learning and creation, rather than just for entertainment or passive consumption. Plowman et al. discusses the role of parental digital literacy in shaping children’s attitudes toward technology, suggesting that children who are guided early on are better prepared for educational and professional demands in a digital-centric future.

Maintaining Open Communication

When parents are digitally literate, they can foster open discussions about the internet, social media, and IoT devices, creating an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences and challenges. This openness supports children in navigating digital spaces and seeking guidance when needed, promoting a balanced relationship with technology.