Raising Children In The Digital Age

The internet generation invests a lot of time and energy in positive and rewarding online activities. We hear of the contributions to society made by young, digital entrepreneurs and apps that facilitate reading proficiency in pre-school children. At the same time, we are also confronted with stories of cyber bulling in chatrooms or the unpleasant consequences of sending a revealing selfie or viewing ‘age inappropriate’ content.

Parents are often faced with an internal struggle. On the one hand, their kids are able to access tools that enrich their education and expand their friendship groups whilst also keeping them ‘entertained’ for hours at a time. On the other hand, parents are interacting less frequently with their children and have limited knowledge of what’s happening in their online world, leading to further distance and separation.

Parents worry about how they can protect their kids online and whilst they understand that restrictions and ‘spying’ on posts and IM conversations leads to lack of trust and content being moved to the ‘down low’ they often just don’t know how else to keep them safe.

Today, more than ever, conversations about technology ‘dos and don’ts’ are crucial. But, let’s be honest, it’s hard to lay down the rules if we are addicted to technology and the Internet ourselves. And it’s often jarring for a child when a parent talks to them about tech because they are likely to know more than the parent. So, here are some ideas to allow the real and online world to coexist happily within the family.

7 Tips for Parents for Good Family, Digital Etiquette

1. No tech at the table. Leave all devices outside the room. If you absolutely need to answer a call or Google something leave the table and do it away from the family meal.
2. Ignoring others whilst you’re on your device is anti-social.
3. Agree what is an ‘obsessive’ daily screen-time and stay under it.
4. Keeping safe in the real world often means not taking risks. It’s the same online, don’t walk down any dark alleys or talk to strangers.
5. ‘Posting’ is publishing and can’t be taken back. If you would worry about certain people seeing your post then don’t post it.
6. Your social media footprint is part of your image and reputation. It’s important that you are proud of what is portrayed not just now but also for your future.
7. Create ‘offline’ family time at least once a week that’s exciting enough for your kids to want to join you.