Before I became a mom, I dove into a sea of parenting books, soaking up every do and don’t like a sponge. I mastered the art of swaddling, learned that carrots should come before blueberries, and even hunted down the safest car seat in town. Now that I’m navigating the wild waters of raising a teen, I feel compelled to share some essential advice on a topic that’s crucial today: how to guide our kids in the digital age. The game has definitely changed! Here’s a look at the lessons we used to share and the tech-savvy wisdom we need to impart now.
Then:
Don’t run with scissors!
Now:
Don’t run with my tablet!
Then:
Turn down that loud rock music!
Now:
Take out those earbuds!
Then:
Answer me when I call your name from downstairs!
Now:
Answer me when I text you!
Then:
Watch where you’re walking!
Now:
Don’t click on that suspicious ad!
Then:
Make sure to comb your hair before school pictures!
Now:
Don’t post those cringeworthy selfies on social media. And for the love of all things caffeinated, please don’t post any pics of me before I’m fully awake!
Then:
Turn off the TV when you leave the room!
Now:
Unplug the charger when you’re done, and please, put it back where it belongs!
Then:
If you finish your dinner, you can stay out for two hours!
Now:
Just go outside and play!
Then:
No elbows on the kitchen table!
Now:
No phones at the dinner table.
Then:
Be picky about your friends!
Now:
Can you “friend” me on your Facebook?
Then:
Look at me when I’m talking to you!
Now:
Look at me when I’m talking to you!
And there you have it! I’d share more, but I think I just got a text. For more insights, you can check out this article on intracervical insemination—it’s packed with great info! And if you’re looking for quality supplies, this site is an authority on this topic. Also, don’t forget to visit the CDC for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, the way we communicate with our kids has evolved dramatically with the rise of technology. From guiding them on safe usage to reminding them of etiquette, the lessons we impart now are shaping their digital lives just as much as their real ones.