With a preteen in the house, it was time for us to learn how to raise a technologically responsible child.
And we want to share what we learned about how the whole family can use technology wisely!
For passwords to download the FREE presentations or to request Alison to lead a course or workshop for your church or community group...
And we want to share what we learned about how the whole family can use technology wisely!
For passwords to download the FREE presentations or to request Alison to lead a course or workshop for your church or community group...
Resources for Session one - Cell Phones
- This book is a great practical tool that can help with all kinds of technology questions - Tech Savvy Parenting by Brian Houseman
- Talk to your child about God's design for sex using The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality
- Watch a SnapChat tutorial here
- Keep up with the latest apps at www.commonsensemedia.org
- Print a Family Cell Phone Contract or an iPod Contract.
- Download step-by-step instructions for setting up restrictions on your child's device:
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Resources for Session two - Entertainment Devices
- Read about some great insights for parenting your teenager in a digital media world in Right Click by Kara Powell
- Learn more about the ESRB App here
- Watch a tutorial to set up X-Box Controls here
- And watch a tutorial for Wii U controls here
- Check out this video to learn more about monitoring Netflix
- Click here to learn more about Circle by Disney, a new way for families to manage content and time across all devices
- Download definitions for the ESRB's Content Descriptors:
| esrb_content_descriptors.docx |
Resources for Session Three - Social Media & Cyberbullying
- In the last five years, the #1 value for adolescents has changed from "fitting in" to "fame." Watch this report to learn more
- Join my #ProjectSELFie
- Educate yourself on kids' favorite social media platform, Instagram, with this video.
- Find resources for cyberbullying at cyberbullying.org.
- Download a Social Media Agreement for your child:
| social_media_agreement.docx |
Resources for Session Four - Pornography & Internet Safety Plans
- Download a free e-book called Parenting the Internet Generation.
- Learn more about Covenant Eyes filter and accountability software here.
- Compare other internet safety programs here.
Tech Savvy Parenting Q&A
Q. How old should my child be before I get them a smart phone?
A. Unfortunately experts say there is no magic age when kids are ready for this responsibility. You have to make that decision based on your child's individual level of readiness. If your child is asking for a phone, keep the conversation open. Kara Powell, author of Right Click, gives this advice, "What is at stake for a lot of young people when they ask, then beg, for these devices or networks is a feeling of fitting in and self worth." So even if the answer is "no" for now, keep the conversation open, show empathy and remember how important fitting in seemed to you in your adolescent journey.
Q. I feel like I have safeguards and controls on my kids devices when they are at home, but how can I be sure that they are following the rules when they are somewhere else?
A. The most important thing you can do for your kids, whether we are talking about technology or any other issue kids will face, is to pray for their salvation. If your child has a saving relationship with Jesus, then he or she is equipped with the Holy Spirit, who will be their guide no matter where they are. Of course God also put you in their life to help raise and lead them. For that reason your relationship with them is super important too! Having frequent and open conversations about your expectations with technology will go a long way, even when they aren't with you. Circle Go is also a helpful tool for parents. Click here to learn more about it.
Q. I found sexual images on my child's phone. What do I do now?
A. Start by taking a deep breath. It's important to understand that this is more likely about your child's lack of impulse control than it is about their character. Kids are risk takers by nature so this is probably not about a deep flaw of your particular child. Next, assess the situation. If the content spread, you may want to reach out to other parents, your school, your church or (if necessary) the police to try and stop it from escalating any further. The most important thing you can do is to communicate with your child. It is probably appropriate to take away devices or online privileges for a season. Use that time to have meaningful conversations. Focus on getting behind the behavior to the real issues and center your conversations in your love and support, and in God's relentless grace. Jesus is bigger than any mistake! He can handle digital media failure. For continued support in this area, you may consider reaching out to your child's youth pastor or visiting Covenant Eyes for helpful resources.
A. Unfortunately experts say there is no magic age when kids are ready for this responsibility. You have to make that decision based on your child's individual level of readiness. If your child is asking for a phone, keep the conversation open. Kara Powell, author of Right Click, gives this advice, "What is at stake for a lot of young people when they ask, then beg, for these devices or networks is a feeling of fitting in and self worth." So even if the answer is "no" for now, keep the conversation open, show empathy and remember how important fitting in seemed to you in your adolescent journey.
Q. I feel like I have safeguards and controls on my kids devices when they are at home, but how can I be sure that they are following the rules when they are somewhere else?
A. The most important thing you can do for your kids, whether we are talking about technology or any other issue kids will face, is to pray for their salvation. If your child has a saving relationship with Jesus, then he or she is equipped with the Holy Spirit, who will be their guide no matter where they are. Of course God also put you in their life to help raise and lead them. For that reason your relationship with them is super important too! Having frequent and open conversations about your expectations with technology will go a long way, even when they aren't with you. Circle Go is also a helpful tool for parents. Click here to learn more about it.
Q. I found sexual images on my child's phone. What do I do now?
A. Start by taking a deep breath. It's important to understand that this is more likely about your child's lack of impulse control than it is about their character. Kids are risk takers by nature so this is probably not about a deep flaw of your particular child. Next, assess the situation. If the content spread, you may want to reach out to other parents, your school, your church or (if necessary) the police to try and stop it from escalating any further. The most important thing you can do is to communicate with your child. It is probably appropriate to take away devices or online privileges for a season. Use that time to have meaningful conversations. Focus on getting behind the behavior to the real issues and center your conversations in your love and support, and in God's relentless grace. Jesus is bigger than any mistake! He can handle digital media failure. For continued support in this area, you may consider reaching out to your child's youth pastor or visiting Covenant Eyes for helpful resources.