Heart4kidsadvocacyforum's Blog

It is such a different world for our children today. In my childhood we were not bombarded by cell phones, computers, ipads, smart televisions and oh the internet that connects us to everything and everyone across the global. This “open” platform of communication requires so much scrutiny and guidelines. Each family must make conscious and deliberate decisions for themselves as to what they will expose their children to.  It is a personal decision and must be reflective of the cultural values of each family. 

My concern is that children have to be protected from being subjected to content, people, and situations that are not appropriate and even dangerous to their wellbeing.  There are so many hidden messages that can be infused in the materials that claim they are child and age appropriate. I don’t take any chances! I strongly suggest that parents view everything they allow their children to engage with beforehand.  I strongly suggest that parents set up parameters of what they watch and engage with on all technological devices.  The internet must be carefully monitored with very clear guidelines of what content and how much time our children can have access to the internet.

We have to start out the way we want to end up.  Children must have clarity of our expectations. No mixed messages and inconsistencies with children.  We are guiding children to use their own discernment in making choices with and without us.  This is where we also engage in conversation on why we have made the decisions we have made on their behalf.  Things must be clear and concise. Remember- YOU ARE THE PARENT.  You are the responsible adult and the love you have for your child guides your course of action in all things that have to do with your child’s wellbeing. I believe the saying that “we are in this world but not of this world” applies to how we must raise our children.  We don’t hand our most precious gift over to the whims of world! We protect their innocence, curiosity, and wonderment!

P.S.

I would like to share that I recommend that we as parents and grandparents are intentional about creating balance in our children’s life.  It is vital that children have a balance between time engaged in technology, academics, free play-inside and outside, and family time. Children need time to explore and experiment with their imagination and creativity and nothing ignites this like play!  Pure, uninhibited, authentic, uninterrupted adult interference, Just–Give space to PLAY!!