Some of your children are so enmeshed in their daily use of these apps and games, it what Food and Drink is to us. Seek professional help please. There is a list of local and national professionals that are ready to help you with this most important challenge you have.
I had many tell me their 16 or 17 year old youth, “lives and breathes these apps and games. I hope there is still time left to be effective with my younger ones.”
The Z Generation, 13-28, has been unbridled in their energy with these apps and games. They have also been naïve. Many Z Gen had parents happy they were energetic, passionate, and absorbed into technology. The monitoring from many homes was totally void.
While not forsaking the Z generation, the Alpha Generation has grown up with the Virtual World very real to them. They are comfortable in this world. It has few rules, dreams can be unlimited, graphics are surreal, and they like how they feel while playing and using this technology.
Understand, these apps and games are developed to be: Effective, Intense, Seductive, Online, while linking their world to the Virtual World. They take our children through levels of challenges, into deeper, more complex virtual worlds. These worlds are real to them, they are discussed everyday with their classmates, friends, and (sadly), their new stranger friends. It’s important to consider a few improvements and additions, to promote a healthy parent-child relationship and a balanced approach to technology use.
Establish Trust and Open Communication:
- Instead of solely relying on passwords, strive to build trust with your children regarding their digital activities.
- Encourage open communication where they feel comfortable discussing their online experiences with you.
- Teach them about responsible internet use and potential dangers.
Teach Responsible Device Usage:
- Set agreed-upon guidelines for device use, such as designated bedtime charging spots or turning off notifications during specific hours.
Promote Digital Literacy and Safety:
- Teach your children about online safety, privacy, and responsible behavior. Encourage them to understand the consequences of their actions online. Guide them to make informed decisions.
- Consider using parental control software or filters to limit exposure to inappropriate content. Please discuss the reasons with your children openly. Emphasize that it’s for their safety and well-being, rather than an invasion of their privacy.
- Make sure to balance monitoring with trust and give them the opportunity to earn more independence as they demonstrate responsible behavior.
Nurture the Parent-Child Relationship:
- While it’s important to prioritize your children’s needs, maintaining a balance between being a loving parent and setting boundaries is crucial.
- Engage in activities together that don’t involve technology, such as outdoor play, hobbies, or family outings.
- Foster a supportive environment where children feel loved, understood, and guided.
Promote a healthy and responsible approach to technology use while maintaining open lines of communication and trust with your children. Adapt these suggestions to your family’s specific needs and values. Always be willing to adapt and learn alongside your children as technology evolves.
Have some family fun away from the Digital Realm. We all are plugged into the world system way more than is probably necessary, or healthy. When my wife and I, on our 2nd marriage, combined 2 youth each, in one household, we set a rule followed all summer. We had two days a week of no electronics. After fighting it the time, it quickly became an enjoyable day for them to look forward to. They quickly found many other things to be involved with that were quick satisfying. Sports, books, even plays were written and performed. It was fun.
Here are some tips for parents, grandparents and guardians, to help ensure the safety of your children when it comes to digital games, especially online games.
Research the game:
- Before allowing your child to play a digital game, research the game to determine if it is appropriate for their age and maturity level.
- Set parental controls: Most gaming platforms and devices offer parental controls that allow parents to: limit access to certain games and content, set time limits, and control in-game purchases.
- Talk to your child: Discuss the potential dangers of online gaming with your child. Do include cyberbullying, meeting strangers in person, and sharing personal information online.
Monitor your children’s activity: Keep an eye on your children’s online gaming activity, including who they are playing with and what they are saying.
Keep personal information private: Remind your children never to share personal information, such as their name, address, phone number, or school, with strangers online.
Be aware of the cost: Some digital games may require in-game purchases, which can add up quickly. Set limits on in-game spending and monitor your children’s purchases.
Teach your children about online etiquette: Teach your children to be respectful of others when playing online games. Yet report any bullying or inappropriate behavior to you or the game’s moderators.
Use antivirus software: Install antivirus software on your computer or device to protect against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
Some gaming safety concerns:
- Online games may use location tracking and/or collect personal information. This can be used to identify or target users. This is a concern for youth when it comes to digital games, especially online games.
- Cost and tracking: Some games may require in-game purchases or track user activity for advertising purposes.
- Online games may provide opportunities for predators to target children and arrange to meet them in person.
Remember, Online bullying and digital attacks:
- Cyberbullying and digital attacks, such as hacking and phishing, can be common in online gaming communities.
- Personal info given: Children may be tempted to share personal information with other players, which can put them at risk.
Other dangers and concerns:
- Online gaming can be highly addictive. Excessive gaming can have negative effects on a child’s health, social life, and academic performance.
It’s important for you to stay informed and engaged in your children’s digital gaming activity to ensure their safety and well-being. The tools, resources, links, info, and other information in this website, are to help you be more current and informed with the Latest Technology. These Apps and Games are used DAILY by your children.
Parents, grandparents, and guardians, please be aware. You understand this world can be both friendly & fierce, while your children may or may not. This world seeks to influence and guide our children. It will continue to do so. Remember to adapt these suggestions to your family’s specific needs and values. Stay proactive, continuously learn alongside your children as technology evolves, and seek professional help when necessary.
Please contact and set an appointment with one of the professional mental health and parent-children specialists that are listed under the resources tab.