Parents will need to pay attention to a variety of interrelated factors in order to safely and responsibly raise their children as they come into contact with an ever-evolving global network. This is where the following tips will prove essential.
First and foremost, it is necessary to keep in mind that aren’t any set rules when it comes to raising a child in the digital world. Even though technology continues to expand and evolve, your kids will be experiencing the same development cycle as you. However, the advent of the internet has created a vast global network which has the potential to dramatically alter their development process.
Parents will need to scrutinize their children’s access to online content and the individuals with whom they interact whilst using platforms such as social media. Parental controls on computers, smart phones and mobile devices are a must during these early years. Parents are also strongly recommended to have regular discussions with their children about safe Internet usage; advising on what content is appropriate to view, how to interact with others, and the dangers of sharing private information.
It is up to you to use the knowledge and experience that you have gained from your own Internet practices in order to guide your child in the right direction. Don’t be afraid when it comes to implementing rules and regulations. All you need to do is outline some safe viewing practices and guidelines for your children to follow. It is natural that you will need to adapt these rules as your child develops and begins to discover new online platforms. As long as you maintain a key focus on safe viewing practices and protecting your children’s private information whilst they are online then you will be able to cope with whatever the digital world throws at you.
After all, the virtual world is growing at a significant pace. Your family will continue exposed to a variety of sophisticated technologies such as virtual reality (VR). As a matter of fact, surveys have shown that over a quarter of classrooms already use VR technology in some capacity. Recent studies have also identified that the ways in which children play has changed alongside the advent of these new technologies. The circle of freedom associated with children has transformed from physical into virtual. As a parent, you are tasked with the responsibility of maintaining the perfect balance between these two options.
Ultimately, you must keep in mind that your child is following you as a role model. Therefore, you should lead by example and show your child what safe and responsible Internet practices look like in the modern world. By doing so, you will equip your child with a solid template which they can utilize throughout their adolescence, teenage years and into adult life. If you follow these tips, raising a child in the digital world need not be a hassle but instead an enjoyable, immensely rewarding experience for your entire family.