By ClieSuns92 on Flickr
You heard it when you were young. “I had to walk uphill both ways!” Now your kids are hearing it from you. Although you may feel as though you are speaking a foreign language when you and your teen talk about technology, thoughtfully incorporate new technologies into your family life and talk about how it aligns with your family values.
Be an eParent®! Negotiate and share family values on the use of digital technology with your teen. For example, if family conversation is a value, as a family discuss the use of cell phones during mealtime or other times the family is together. When your child is asking for a smartphone, tablet or video gaming system, consider your family values when making the decision – and include your child in these discussions and considerations.
Although it may not seem at times that your teen appreciates your values, he or she is paying attention! Expressing and living by your values is great modeling as your teen explores their moral development.
Read about the positive ways teens use technology to stay connected.
To learn more contact UW-Extension Family Living Programs or like Family Living on Facebook.
