Jessica Wong, Community Outreach Director at Hazelden, recently spoke to community members in our area about Teens and Technology in a presentation called “Warp Speed”. Over the next few weeks we’ll be sharing some of her tips for raising healthy teens on technology!
- The safety of your children trumps their privacy. If you’re searching their devices and social media account prevents them from experiencing harm, it’s worth it!
- Modeling healthy technology use to your children. Children often ask why they should stop playing video games or using their phones when mom and dad are constantly on their devices. They are paying attention to you and your actions.
- Ask questions! What are they doing while they are online? Who are they talking to? What games to they play? Why do they prefer Snapchat to Instagram? Engage them in conversations about their use will help you gain useful insight.
- Make sure children are clear about your expectations and rules. Revisit them and discuss them often!
Watch for more tips and tidbits next week!
“58% of people sleep with their phone next to their bed so they don’t miss calls, messages, or other updates.”