We're surrounded by technology. In fact it's hard to avoid it.
While access to devices of various kinds can have advantages, there are also disadvantages, some of which you might not even realise.
(Be Smart About) Screen Time! is a guide, a series of questions and answers, and a non-fiction graphic novel. It presents key concepts and issues in a simple and easy to understand way.
Specifically aimed at children, but helpful for everyone, it covers some of the pros and cons of having the world at your fingertips, and touches on media literacy by discussing whether or not seeing is believing.
There's also information on how much screen time is too much, cyber safety (who to talk to, content to avoid, cyber bullying etc), and setting boundaries.
There's also information about how social media makes it difficult for your brain to quit, and draws you in, being kind in digital communication, and not judging the worth of yourself or others by things like the number of likes you get.
Examples help explain the subjects being discussed, and mini comics (each a single page) provide added context. For example, there's one about power and responsibility and what that might mean for looking after your devices. And there's Marble the cat who appears throughout the book with various tips and insights.
Created by Rachel Brian,
this is a highly visual book, packed with comic strip style text and
illustrations. It should appeal to generations Z, alpha and beta in
particular.
(Be Smart About) Screen Time!: Stay Grounded, Set Boundaries, and Keep Safe Online is recommended for families and schools, as an excellent discussion starter.
Visit the website of the eSafety Commissioner for further advice for parents and carers.
Title: (Be Smart About) Screen Time!: Stay Grounded, Set Boundaries, and Keep Safe Online
Author/Illustrator: Rachel Brian
Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers US, $
26.99
Publication Date: November 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780316575546
For ages: 8+
Type: Junior Non-Fiction