As modern parents, we’re raising little ones in a world where screens and tech are part of everyday life, whether it’s video calling Grandma, playing interactive learning games, or watching their favourite characters dance across the screen. Whilst many of us try to minimise our childrens screentime, there is no denying that sometimes technology can be a wonderful tool...but only when used in a safe, intentional way.
At My Creative Box, we know our amazing community of hands-on parents wants to raise kids who are not just thoughtful, caring and creative, but also digitally aware.
That’s why we’re proud to share a fantastic online safety guide for under fives from the eSafety Commissioner. This is an essential read for anyone navigating screen time with toddlers and preschoolers.
Check out eSafety's guide for parents of children under 5 HERE
This resource from Australia’s eSafety Commissioner is a must-read and is full of resources and activities for not just parents but children too. It’s not about locking everything down, it's about setting your child up for safe and healthy tech habits from the very beginning.
Here are just a few of our favourite takeaways:
1. Be Present and Involved.
Co-play and co-viewing is where the magic happens. Whether you’re watching a short video together or guiding your child through a new app, your presence helps them feel supported and safe.
2. Choose Trusted Apps and Content
Stick with ad-free, age-appropriate content from trusted sources. Choose shows and apps that inspire creativity, curiosity and problem solving - just like the activities inside every My Creative Box!
3. Set Gentle, Clear Limits
Screens should never replace sleep, play or connection. Try screen-free meals, “no-tech” wind-down time before bed, and using screen time as a shared reward or bonding moment.
4. Talk Openly About Tech
Even young kids can learn to recognise how tech makes them feel. Keep conversations casual but frequent: “What did you think of that show?” or “Was that game fun or tricky?” builds awareness from day one.
Navigating tech with toddlers can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to be a digital expert. Just staying involved, curious, and connected is enough to guide your child towards safe and confident digital habits.
That’s why resources like the eSafety Commissioner’s Under 5s guide are such a gift: simple, practical tips you can actually use in everyday life. There is even a super fun episode of Playschool available on ABC iview for Free which you can watch
HERE alongside your child to get the conversation and learning started in an age appropriate way 💛
From all of us at My Creative Box: Let’s raise curious, confident, and creative kids, both online and off.
