What Is the Digital World?

Hello, Digital Explorer!

Have you ever used a tablet to play a game? Have you watched a cartoon

on television, talked to Grandma on a phone, or used a computer at

school?

If you have, you have already visited the digital world!

What Is the Digital World?

The digital world includes the devices and technology we use to learn,

communicate, create, work, and have fun.

Digital devices include:

• Smartphones

• Tablets

• Computers and laptops

• Televisions

• Smartwatches

• Video game systems

• Digital cameras

• Smart speakers

Some digital devices are small enough to hold in your hand. Others

are large enough to hang on a wall. Each one has a special purpose.

Meet Maya, the Digital Explorer

One morning, Maya woke up and heard music playing from her mother’s

phone.

At school, Maya’s teacher used a computer to show the class a video about

butterflies. After school, Maya talked to her grandfather on a video call.

Later, she played an educational game on her tablet.

“Wow!” Maya said. “I used technology many times today!”

Her mother smiled and said, “Technology can be a wonderful tool when we

use it wisely.”

Maya thought about the word tool. A hammer is a tool for building. A pencil

is a tool for writing. A digital device is also a tool—it can help us learn,

create, communicate, and solve problems.

But a tool should never become the boss of us.

What Can Technology Help Us Do?

Technology can help us:

• Learn new things

• Read books and listen to stories

• Talk with family members who live far away

• Create pictures, music, and videos

• Complete schoolwork

• Find directions with a trusted adult

• Play age-appropriate games

• Watch educational programs

Technology can be helpful, but it is only one part of life.

Our bodies also need movement. Our brains need rest. Our hearts need

loving relationships. We need time to read, imagine, pray, explore outside,

and play with other people.

Technology Is a Tool—Not the Boss

Have you ever wanted to keep watching a show after a grown-up said it

was time to stop? Maybe you wanted to play “just one more” level of a

game.

It can be hard to turn off a screen when you are having fun. That does not

make you bad. It means you are still learning how to make healthy choices.

A Digital Wellness Hero remembers:

“I am in charge of my choices. My device is not in charge of me.”

When screen time is over, you can:

1. Turn off the device.

2. Place it in its proper spot.

3. Take a deep breath.

4. Choose a real-world activity.

5. Ask an adult for help if stopping feels difficult.

What Can I Do Away From Screens?

There are many wonderful things to enjoy without a digital device. You can:

• Build with blocks

• Draw or paint a picture

• Read a printed book

• Ride a bicycle

• Play outside

• Help prepare a snack

• Sing and dance

• Pray

• Complete a puzzle

• Talk with your family

• Use your imagination

Screens can show us exciting worlds, but the real world is filled with people

to love, places to explore, and adventures to enjoy.

Digital Wellness Hero Tip

Before using a device, ask a trusted adult:

• May I use this device?

• What may I watch or play?

• How long may I use it?

• What should I do if I see something confusing or scary?

Always tell a trusted adult when something on a screen makes you feel

uncomfortable, worried, frightened, or confused.

Talk About It

Parents and children can discuss these questions together:

1. Which digital devices do we have in our home?

2. How does each device help our family?

3. What are three activities I enjoy without a screen?

4. How can I show that I am the boss of my technology choices?

Family Activity: Digital Device Discovery

Walk through your home with a parent or caregiver and look for digital

devices.

For every device you find, answer:

• What is this device called?

• What does our family use it for?

• Who may use it?

• What rule helps us use it wisely?

Then draw a picture of one digital device helping someone learn, create, or

communicate.

A Faith-Filled Reminder

The Bible teaches:

“I have the right to do anything—but I will not be mastered by anything.”

—1 Corinthians 6:12

Technology can be useful and enjoyable, but God created us to live with

wisdom and self-control. We can enjoy screens without allowing them to

control our time, thoughts, or behavior.

My Digital Wellness Affirmation

Technology is a tool, and I can use it wisely.

I will ask before using a device.

I will choose safe and helpful content.

I will make time for learning, movement, rest, faith, family, and play.

I am becoming a Digital Wellness Hero!

                                                                                                                                                                                                   Parenting With Love Academy

Empowering Families. Transforming Lives.

                                                                                                                                                                                                 With Love, Yvonne Brooks