Have you ever used a tablet to learn something new?
Maybe you’ve watched a funny video, played a game, talked with someone you love,
listened to music, or used a computer for school.
Technology can do some pretty amazing things!
But here’s something important every young digital explorer should know:
Technology is a TOOL. It is not your BOSS!
That’s right—you are in charge.
Phones, tablets, computers, televisions, video games, and smart devices were created
to help us. We can use them to learn, create, communicate, and have fun.
But we don’t have to use them every minute of the day.
Think About a Hammer
A hammer is a tool.
You pick it up when you need it.
You use it for a purpose.
And when you’re finished, you put it down.
Imagine carrying a hammer everywhere you went!
You wouldn’t take it to the dinner table.
You wouldn’t stare at it while someone was talking to you.
And you certainly wouldn’t sleep with it in your hand!
That would be silly.
Technology works the same way.
Use it when it helps you. Put it down when it’s time for something else.
Who Is the Boss?
Imagine you’re playing your favorite game when you hear:
“Dinner is ready!”
Your brain might say:
“Just one more game!”
Or maybe you’re watching videos and think:
“Just one more!”
And then another.
And another.
This is an important moment.
You have a choice.
You can tell yourself:
“I can stop. I am in charge of my technology.”
Turning off a device when you want to keep using it takes self-control—and self-control
gets stronger when you practice it.
Technology Can Be a Great Helper
Technology can help you:
Learn something new.
Create art.
Make music.
Discover new ideas.
Write stories.
Solve problems.
Connect with family.
Explore the world.
But technology should leave room for the other wonderful parts of life too.
You need time to move your body, play outside, talk with family, read books, use your
imagination, rest, pray, create, laugh, and enjoy the world around you.
Ask Yourself: “Why Am I Picking Up This Device?”
Before turning on a screen, try asking:
What am I going to use this for?
Maybe your answer is:
“I’m doing my homework.”
“I’m calling Grandma.”
“I’m playing my game for a little while.”
“I’m watching my favorite show.”
“I’m learning how volcanoes work!”
Having a purpose helps you use technology instead of letting technology use all your
time.
Practice the Power of “Off”
Turning a device on is easy.
Learning when to turn it off is a digital wellness superpower!
Practice saying:
“I’m finished.”
“I can play again another time.”
“It’s time to do something else.”
“My screen can wait.”
“I am the boss of my choices.”
Every time you practice stopping, you’re strengthening your self-control.
Try the Tool-or-Boss Challenge
The next time you use technology, answer these three questions:
1. Why am I using this device?
2. How long do I plan to use it?
3. What will I do when I’m finished?
Maybe you’ll ride your bike, draw a picture, help make dinner, play with your pet, read a
book, build something, or talk with someone you love.
Young Digital Explorer Challenge
Today, choose one time to put technology away without being asked.
Then do something you enjoy away from a screen.
Afterward, ask yourself:
How did I feel when I chose to put my device down?
What did I enjoy doing instead?
Was stopping easy or difficult?
Remember
Technology isn’t bad.
Technology can be wonderful!
The goal isn’t to be afraid of technology. The goal is to learn how to use it wisely.
You can decide:
WHEN to use technology.
WHY to use technology.
HOW to use technology.
And...
WHEN TO PUT IT DOWN.
That’s what being a healthy digital citizen is all about.
My Digital Wellness Promise
Technology is my tool—not my boss.
I choose how I use my screen.
I can enjoy technology and enjoy life away from technology.
I can stop when it’s time to stop.
My attention belongs to me.
I am learning to make smart, healthy digital choices!
Question of the Day
What is one thing you love doing that doesn’t need a screen?
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