Educate the family by example in the good use of cell phones.

The Mirror Brain: Children as Imitators

Education in the use of technology is not based on what parents say, but on what parents do.

Children, especially in infancy and early adolescence, operate through "mirror neurons"; their main form of learning is imitation.

If a parent tells his child to "put down the cell phone" while he himself does not look up from his own screen, the verbal message is overridden by the behavioral example.

The real message the child receives is: "The cell phone is more important than me".

Educating by example means that adults must be the first to adhere to the rules of the home.

If it is established that "no cell phones at the table," this rule must be sacred, especially for parents.

If the adult interrupts a face-to-face conversation with their child to attend to a trivial notification, they are teaching that digital connection is prioritized over human connection.

Digital Disconnection for Family Connection

Good cell phone use involves knowing when not to use it. The most powerful example parents can set is that of full presence.

This means designating times and spaces in the day that are technology-free "sanctuaries," not just for children, but for the whole family.

Dinner, breakfast, car rides or bedtime are crucial times for family connection, and should be free of digital interruptions. Parents should actively model "unplugging."

This includes gestures such as putting the cell phone on silent and face down during dinner, or announcing "I'm going to leave the phone here because now I'm going to play with you."

This behavior teaches the child that technology is a tool in the service of life, not the other way around.

Modeling Conflict Management and Online Empathy

"Good use" is not just about time, but about how. Parents lead by example when they show how they manage their own digital lives.

If a parent is in a WhatsApp group and complains loudly ("Look what nonsense this one said!"), they are modeling dissing or complaining.

If, on the other hand, you avoid participating in toxic groups, opt out of them or don't forward gossip, you are modeling integrity.

Even managing technological frustration is an example.

If the WiFi is slow and the parent yells or curses, it teaches a low frustration tolerance.

If the parent manages their own work emai