Admission #1: I don’t have kids. I’m so far from having kids, my mother makes a point of mentioning that her time clock for grandchildren is ticking even if mine isn’t. So forgive me at being a little naive when it comes to the trends of our youth.
Admission #2: Since I grew up without many modern conveniences (I was OUT of college and gainfully employed before I got my first cell phone. Heck, I begged for a phone outlet in my room when I turned 15.), it’s hard for me to remember that the cell phone is as much a part of the youth experience today as The Smurf’s were for my experience some 20+ years ago.
When computers first became popular, we dealt with the porn and other social ills by encouraging our families to put computers in common areas where others can monitor activities. However, now that many phones enable instant messaging, email and web browsing at any time, from anywhere how do we adapt and ensure that our children aren’t falling into the same traps as in the early days of the internet.
I read a great article that describes how parents can limit access on some of the more advanced phones. It’s a great step in the right direction. However, parents should consider all the implications when they decide what model of phone, and service plan, they want to purchase for their children. Does an 8 year old really need 24/7 access to his/her email?
