We hope that you’ve enjoyed our Teens and Technology Blog Series. Don’t forget that you can check out all of our previous posts by clicking on “technology” in the list of topics on the left side bar of this page. This final post discusses what you can do going forward: Ready for the Next Level Go […]
Learn how to report abuse – Just as we all know to call 911 in an emergency, know how to recognize dangerous situations when using technology and get help. These websites provide information on how to report abuse. Review these websites with your child to understand what abuse might look like and what to do […]
Looking for Truth Learn how to find the truth and understand why it matters. Encourage a healthy doubt and interest in learning what really happened. Teens will see and hear an outpouring of information that may or may not be true, online and in person. Urban myths, gossip, fake identities, distorted points of view, and […]
As teens reluctantly head back to school and leave the lazydays of summer behind, we are reminded of the stress that lies ahead for our youth. While returning to school can be an exciting time to get reacquainted with friends and teachers, it can also be the start of what may be some of the […]
Respect for Others Define stealing – Teach your child to respect another’s work and the right to be paid and get credit for it. “Technology does not trump thoughtfulness. Infringing on the rights of others reflects poorly on you and certainly isn’t what wireless technology is about.” Tom Wheeler, President/CEO of Cellular Telecommunications & Internet […]
Learn Critical Thinking – Practice the process of making decisions. Parents can help children learn to make good decisions on their own. Technology offers an opportunity to practice. Encourage Common Sense – Help your child learn common sense with simple rules that work in many situations. These easy to remember phrases help a child make […]
Part 5: Walk the Talk Model Good Behavior – Set rules for acceptable behavior and model that behavior yourself. Discourage gossiping Click here to read about the harmful effects of gossip. Do not allow bullying; learn how to stop it when you see it and help your child know what to do when it appears. […]
Section Four: Protect yourself Help your child understand the concept of ‘digital footprint’, and think about what they can do to protect it. Children think parents have eyes in the back of their heads, but now there are many more ‘eyes’ and the ‘eyes’ can photograph what they see and easily share. “Tell your kids […]
Section Three: Pay Attention Monitor usage. Figure out how much time your child is using technology, where and when. Know where your child has access to technology – at school, after school, at a library, visiting a friend, which friends, at a coffee shop, through his or her phone, a friend’s phone, through another adult’s […]
Section Two: Listen and Learn Keep the lines of communication open Talk with your child about technology in a positive way. Express your interest. Ask to see favorite websites. Learn where to look for website use history and review it with your child. Talk about how to discover something new. What does your child wants to learn? […]