Media and Technology

A Parent’s Guide to Video Games: Online Video Game Safety Simplified. Learn more about the webcast. View the webcast

NEW! Download A Parent’s Guide to Video Games: Parental Controls and Online Safety. —in English —en Español

Media messages from television, movies, music, and the Internet are a daily part of our children's lives. While electronic media can open up new worlds of rich learning experiences to children, they can also convey messages about violence, sex, commercialism, stereotyping, and other themes that worry parents.

When children are exposed to images and messages they do not understand and are unable to interpret, parents will want to intervene. For example, when children see smoking, drinking, and drug use in the media, parents will want talk about it with their children and guide them in taking a critical look at how cigarettes, alcohol, and other drugs are portrayed.

Here are a few other suggestions on how parents can protect their children from harmful topics conveyed through electronic media.

• Learn about the kinds of media and technology your children are using.
• Talk with your children about their media choices.
• Check their understanding of the messages and images they encounter.
• Make media choices together—decide what your family will and won't view.
• Encourage sensible and thoughtful use of screen time for your family.
• Consider ages and needs of your children, and set clear rules and expectations for all family members.

National PTA feels that it's the responsibility of parents, teachers, and other caregivers to control children's exposure to electronic media and to promote their media literacy. The resources offered here will help parents fulfill these responsibilities.

Safety Is No Game. Is Your Family Set? — Make a PACT Today! (2 MB)
A tool to help promote healthy and balanced media use.

Resources