Over the years, our society has completely changed. Changes are very visible in almost every aspect of our lives, from the way we work, to the way we socialize, be it the way leisure time is spent or how children play and interact with each other. Technology is the greatest contributor to these changes. The impact of changes primarily caused by technology is most noticeable in families. Parents should consider how technology is affecting children’s developing minds and determine what role they want it to play in their children’s lives.
Technology has its share of disadvantages and negative effects on our children, but, it also is a tool to make them feel that they are loved.
“Giving parent and child the quick ability to communicate with one another is the greatest benefit,” according to Mary T. Phelan, public information officer with the Howard County Police Department. Latest technologies give parents lots of ways to connect with their children and make parenting job easier.
Before technology emerged, a parent who works abroad had difficulty communicating with their loved ones living across the ocean. Sometimes they needed to leave their children at a very young age, making it hard for the children to recognize their parted parent anymore when they come back after several years, and it is one sad scenario.
Nowadays, because of the latest technologies – texts, Facebook and Instagram interactions, snapchat, video calling, parents and their kids may see each other and talk every time they want. They may say “I love you” often. Though apart, parents and children may still have an open communication and easier conversations.
Technology brings the family closer, redefining how time is spent as a family. Parents and children may have some digital fun. As ways of bonding with each other, they may watch movies together, or play video games using cool tech gadgets, in the comfort of the family’s couch, sitting or lying side by side with each other. This way, kids feel the love and attention of the parents, along with having fun, sharing laughter together.
Local Parent Educator Specialist, Sheena Hill, the owner of Parenting Works stated that, “when parents and kids use technology together, it provides countless teachable moments to discuss important values and expectations.”