Before I welcomed my son into the world, I immersed myself in numerous parenting guides, absorbing every do’s and don’ts I could find. I mastered the art of swaddling, understood the significance of introducing green beans before peaches, and even figured out where to find the safest car seat.
Now, as a mother to a teenager, I feel compelled to share some insights on what parents today really need to focus on: teaching our kids how to navigate technology responsibly. The game has undoubtedly changed! Here’s my perspective on the advice we used to give our children before technology took over, and the new lessons we must impart.
Then vs. Now
Then: Don’t run with scissors!
Now: Don’t run with my tablet!
Then: Turn down that loud music!
Now: Remove those headphones!
Then: Respond when I call you from downstairs!
Now: Reply to my text!
Then: Watch where you’re going!
Now: Avoid clicking on that sketchy ad!
Then: Remember to comb your hair before school pictures!
Now: Don’t post cringe-worthy photos of yourself on social media—especially any of me before I’ve had my morning coffee!
Then: Turn off the TV when you leave!
Now: Unplug your charger and put it back where it belongs!
Then: If you finish your dinner, you can stay out for an extra hour!
Now: Just go outside and play!
Then: No elbows on the dinner table!
Now: No phones at the table!
Then: Choose your friends wisely!
Now: Can you “friend” me on your social media?
Then: Look at me when I’m talking to you!
Now: Look at me when I’m talking to you! (Some things never change.)
There you have it! I’d share more, but I just got a notification. For more insights on parenting, check out this post on our other blog, which dives deeper into home insemination. You can also find more resources about fertility and pregnancy at the CDC’s site. And if you’re looking for reliable products, this is a great place to start.
In summary, as the landscape of parenting evolves with technology, our communication with our children must adapt as well. The old rules are being replaced with modern guidelines that reflect the digital world we live in.