How to Raise Children in the Digital Age

[FamTimes reporter Jennylyn Gianan] How parents behave while raising children in the digital age matters. Adults teach young people values by demonstrating kindness and good behavior online. Adults themselves should first reduce their media use and always interact with their children.

Children learn best through close, personal communication. Rather than sending messages by computer or smartphone, parents should make time for their children and talk with them face to face.

Time spent with children helps them build a positive self-image, trust and self-confidence. It also allows families to spend more time together, enjoy nutritious meals and attend to their children's health and rest.

It is best not to use technology as a means of emotional comfort. Media can help calm children, but it is overly direct and stimulating. Children should be taught how to identify and process their own emotions, such as by overcoming boredom through reading and writing, discussing ways to solve problems or finding other solutions.

Dependence on the online world represents abnormal adolescent development. However, it is impossible to prevent young people from using the internet altogether. Parents should therefore make sure their children are adjusting well in both the real and online worlds.

A platform's privacy settings do not make private things truly private. Personal photos, concerns and everything shared online immediately become part of one's digital exposure.

Young people are also concerned about their personal information being exposed online. Using social networking media increases the risk of identity theft.

Parents should show empathy. Rather than scolding children unconditionally, they should guide them in correcting their mistakes. Let children gain experience for themselves while making it clear that you will always be there to help.

Media gadgets make social connections easier for children as well as adults. They allow us to stay connected with friends and family, remain well informed about the news, access a wealth of information and complete assignments with just a few clicks. These possibilities emerged with innovations in data and communications.

Jennylyn Gianan fam1@pcss.co.kr