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NAVIGATING THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE :
By Dr . David Warren
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HOW TO HELP OUR CHILDREN HANDLE SCREEN TIME WISELY
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According to a recent study by Barna , 78 percent of parents believe it is more challenging to raise children today than ever before . The number one reason cited was technology . 1
The world is changing rapidly , and parents are struggling to keep up with the pace . New devices , apps , and digital mediums are constantly being introduced into the marketplace . It is your responsibility as parents to train up your children in a way that honors the Lord . This means protecting them from the more dangerous parts of the internet and preparing them for a world that is more and more filled with technology . How do families confront this swiftly changing world ? Here are four starting points that I hope will help you and your family begin to navigate the digital landscape .
1 : GAIN KNOWLEDGE ABOUT TECHNOLOGY , AND DON ’ T BURY YOUR HEAD IN THE SAND .
We can ask our parents for advice about many areas regarding parenting , but technology is likely not one of them . Sure , we had video games and maybe even computers , but we are leaps and bounds beyond what was available technology-wise when we were kids .
In many cases , our children know more about our devices and the internet than we do ! These children are the first generations to be born and raised with the internet as part of their everyday lives .
If we are going to raise a generation prepared to make a difference , then we need to protect and prepare them for the world they actually live in .
The challenge to parents in Deuteronomy 6 to “ teach them diligently to your children . . .” refers to the teaching of God ’ s Word to our kids . However , it is also about teaching them the application of God ’ s Word to their everyday lives in this present culture . You need to learn how to use technology biblically for your family ’ s sake . You need to know what God ’ s Word teaches about these subjects and teach it to your children . This includes knowing why standards are important and communicating those standards to your children .
Set a high bar in regards to technology in your home . Set limits and expectations on why , where , when , what , and how long .
Ignorance is no excuse for not parenting ; you can learn , and others can help you . This article could be the kickstarter for you to make some changes around how your family approaches the issue of screen time .
42 THE RENEWANATION REVIEW