All of the gadgets in our hands and all of our attention divided and scattered. How could that possibly be helpful? The case against the damage modern technology can have on family life and marriage is well documented. But, that technology is not going to go away. So in our parenting, is it possible to use technology to our advantage regarding our children? All of our smart phones, tablets, social media, and the whole lot can (and should) be used to promote a closer bond with our kids. How do we do that? Here are 5 ways:
1. Exploration
Modern technology brings all of the information of the world to our fingertips. For instance, if your child dreams of the animals of Africa, you can instantly take them on a virtual safari. Use this miracle to your advantage by opening up the window of endless opportunities to explore with your child. Go somewhere new every night with Discovery Kids.
2. Education in Other Cultures
“A stranger is simply a friend you haven’t met yet.” This popular cliché can be true. Rather than allowing your child to shirk back in uncertainty when meeting someone from a different culture, use technology to educate your kids about other people’s backgrounds. Why does a person from a particular country wear that? Why do they eat that? Etc. Technology can remove stereotypes and increase understanding and affection. Explore new places with National Geographic Kids.
3. The Power of Video
Today we have wonderful video capabilities that allow us to remain connected with our children. That traveling Dad can now video chat with his son before he goes to bed and read him a story. Mom can check in on her daughter via Skype and tell her child she loves her. The brave soldier can shed tears as his wife holds his newborn son up to the camera. No technology can ever replace actual human contact, but it can certainly bridge the gaps that divide us until we can get back to where our hearts reside. Visit our All Pro Dad video blog for funny, safe, family videos to view with your kids.
4. Communication
A parent should always use every tool at their disposal to break down those barriers and keep a continuous line of communication open with their kids. This is where technology comes in. Our children now communicate via text, Twitter, and Facebook with email even seeming outdated and ancient. That means we must do the same if we hope to deepen our bonds. For example, a text from Dad to his son before football practice saying that he is proud of him and to “Go get ‘em.” Mom sends her daughter a warm private message on Facebook after her first boyfriend breakup. Technology is just another means to tell your kids you love them.
5. School Involvement
When children fall behind in school, it leads to all sorts of problems including their relationship with you. Our children do not want to let us down and can be crushed when they feel we are disappointed in them. With the technology parents have available now, we can stay on top of our kids’ school work on a daily basis. Our children’s teachers are more accessible to us now and oftentimes the schoolwork is posted online and ready for our examination. We can check these things from all of our sources of technology and take the steps that are necessary for smooth sailing. When parents become deeply involved and invested in their child’s school life, usually the only additional steps required are to say, “Great job!”