Raising digital kids

raising-digital-kids

I’m always surprised by the different approach parents take when it comes to their younger kids’ use of technology. Some are only too happy to pass over their iPhones or iPads at every opportunity, while others see exposure to video games and the Internet as the end of childhood, something to be put off for as long as possible. This confusion over what’s the “right” approach has even found its way into the classroom, with neighboring elementary schools taking equal pride in their contrasting high-tech or no-tech environments.

But sheltering our kids from technology is only delaying the inevitable. We live in a digital world and if our kids don’t have at least some exposure to technology by the time they reach middle school, they risk falling behind both academically and socially. Whether it’s a school project, a birthday party, or a trip to the mall, if they’re not plugged in, they’re going to feel left out.

But an early exposure to technology doesn’t mean that we have to abandon our parenting principles. In fact, a firm hand and proper guidance while they take those first digital steps is essential. Nothing gives kids more confidence than knowing that their parents are watching over them and keeping them safe as they try new things.

Here are a few tips to ensure a successful transition to tech for your kids:

Get up to speed

Whether it’s knowing how to set up parental controls, finding out whether a video game is appropriate, or just sending a text, it’s essential that parents have at least some working knowledge of all the elements that make up their children’s digital worlds. You may not know everything about technology but you don’t want your kids flying blind or making up their own rules as they go.

Set a good example

Is your smartphone a constant companion? Do you answer texts, emails, or phone calls anytime, anyplace? If so, don’t be surprised if your kids follow your example and reach for their tech toys at every opportunity. The best way to teach our kids appropriate use of technology is to set a good example: no technology at mealtimes, no technology in the bedroom, etc. Find a set of rules that suits your family and stick to them.

Face-to-face relationships are still important

The virtual world is not a substitute for the real one. In an age where everyone on Facebook has 200 “friends” it’s more important than ever to teach the value of real relationships. Accept the role of technology in your kids’ lives, but teach them the importance of face-to-face time with friends and family.

Trust but verify

Privacy is great but not when it compromises safety. Understand what your kids are doing online and how they use their tech devices. Keep family computers in a common area and talk with them about Internet safety. Establishing trust comes from doing the right thing. Make sure you are always the first person your kids talk to when they come across something that doesn’t feel right.

Comments:

  3. What i don’t understood is actually how you are no longer actually a lot more smartly-appreciated than you might be now.
    You are so intelligent. You recognize therefore significantly with regards
    to this matter, produced me for my part imagine it from numerous varied angles.
    Its like men and women are not fascinated unless it’s one thing to accomplish with Lady gaga!

    Your personal stuffs outstanding. All the time take care of it up!

    Feel free to surf to my web blog; accessing medical cannabis

  4. Howdy very cool site!! Man .. Beautiful .. Superb ..
    I will bookmark your blog and take the feeds also? I am satisfied to find so many helpful info here within the submit,
    we’d like work out extra techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing.
    . . . . .

    Look at my blog post … talk dirty

  5. I’m amazed, I must say. Rarely do I come across a blog that’s both equally
    educative and entertaining, and without a doubt, you’ve
    hit the nail on the head. The problem is something
    too few folks are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy
    I stumbled across this during my search for something regarding this.

  6. It’s appropriate time to make some plans for the long run and it is time to be happy.

    I’ve read this submit and if I could I wish to
    suggest you some attention-grabbing issues or suggestions.

    Maybe you can write subsequent articles regarding
    this article. I desire to learn even more things about it!

    Feel free to surf to my page try hemp

  8. This is a good tip especially to those new to
    the blogosphere. Brief but very accurate information… Thanks for sharing this one.

    A must read article!

  10. What’s Taking place i am new to this, I stumbled upon this I’ve
    discovered It absolutely helpful and it has aided me out loads.

    I hope to contribute & assist other users like its aided
    me. Great job.

    Feel free to visit my homepage: http://www.comptine.biz

  45. Beyaz Rusya Porno. Gövdesinden tutarak götüme hizaladım ve
    kendimi üzerine bırakarak oturdum, külotumu çıkardım.

    Ben de karımı oldukça sert sikiyor, hem ilk kez kendimi ona verdim.

    10 dakika sonra ağzıma boşaldı ve ben döllerininin hepsini yuttum.

    Ben Emine 25 yaşındayım, yarabbim bu ne güzel bir
    beyaz rusya porno Kızım.

  46. Pierwszym badaniem laboratoryjnym wykonywanym u
    mężczyzny w celu oceny płodności jest seminogram (badanie nasienia).

    Badanie nasienia może być poddawane ocenie manualnej bądź analizie komputerowej.

    Ejakulat oceniany jest makroskopowo – analizowane są takie cechy nasienia, jak:
    zapach, objętość, lepkość, pH, kolor i czas.

  51. Good answers in return of this matter with real arguments and describing all
    on the topic of that.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recommended Articles

Parental Guides for Instagram and Snapchat

Web Browsers for Kids

The 7 Other Social Networks Your Kids Are Using

7 Steps to Smartphone Safety

Make Safety a Priority For Younger Phone Users