The Technological Revolution.

This year Google is investing in the education space with some pretty impressive plans to bring Virtual Reality to classrooms across the globe. What does that mean for you? Does the thought of advanced technology becoming a normal part of your kid’s life stress you out?

There’s one important thing we all need to know when it comes to the evolution of technology and that is that our kids are true digital natives. That means that technology has been an integral part of their lives since the day they were born. As a result, they will understand and adapt to technology better than us. They will have the upper hand in terms of learning and exposure to new technologies. Applied science and its inevitable advancement is unavoidable. Ever heard of 5G? Do you know what advancements it’s going to bring? Do you know the difference between Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality? No? Well don’t panic, let’s take this a step at a time.

Should we be worried?

The cyber-train has left the station my friends. Is technology something to fear? Like anything that truly pushes the boundaries of evolution, technology is a double-edged sword. The beauty of advanced thinking and technological breakthrough is truly amazing. The good that will come from such developments is immeasurable. Imagine the opportunity for advanced medical breakthroughs via virtual reality research and testing? Or the chance to witness the Siberian tiger brought back from the brink of extinction? Or if you’re like me, having a sommelier walk you through the wine choices in front of you? Technology is wondrous. Our children are on the precipice of a technological revolution and the opportunity they have ahead of them is breathtaking.

Of course, there’s always some asshat that wants to ruin it for everyone. Inevitably there will be people that use this evolved solution for evil; this has been the case since fire was discovered. As a mother I wonder how I will keep up? How will I know exactly what my kid’s virtual playground looks like and whom or what they may be exposed to? How do I keep them safe without suppressing the chance for them to explore and create in this exciting world?

 

6 things you should start doing now.

The reality is we probably won’t be able to stay ahead of the incredible pace in which we are evolving as a society but there are things we can do to nurture our children to be safe in this space. I will continue to feature new technology and insider info in my email blast but here are a few things to consider as you think about your kids embracing the coming technology.

1.

Talk to your kids. Join them in their exploration and excitement. If your child feels you reject technology or that you think it’s not a positive advancement they will be less likely to talk to you about it.

2.

Do your research. Get to know your child’s cyber world. You wouldn’t consider allowing your child to go a place you aren’t familiar with and the online space should be treated the same. You will need to stay with your kids as they explore the Internet up until around 7 or 8. If you have taught them to be safe online you won’t need to constantly sit with them by this age but you will need to make sure they are only using technology in your presence. The ‘over the shoulder’ check is still important.

3.

Teach them about privacy. Let your kids know that they must never share their name, email address, age, phone number, postal address, school or picture without your permission. They mustn’t open emails from people they don’t know. They mustn’t meet up with people they have interacted with online (ask them to talk to you about this if it comes up for them).

4.

Keep the computer in a central location. Don’t let kids use devices in places you can’t see them. Don’t allow online time through mobile or tablet unless you are sitting with them and can see the screen or hear the interactions.

5.

Be careful about rescinding online privileges. If your child is in breach of an online rule, think before you take away their privileges. This could encourage them to keep their online behavior from you in future. Instead talk to them about why they shouldn’t do what they did and look at alternative forms of discipline or coaching. Your want your kids to talk to you if they make a mistake and are exposed to something that made them uncomfortable, not keep it from you because they are afraid of the repercussions.

6.

Use your ISP (Internet Service Provider). Most ISP’s have parental controls to limit the type of content coming through so check online how to enable them. Also, use Google safe search filter (but be aware savvy kids can disable this). Your browser (Internet explorer, Netscape, Safari etc.) contains settings that should be adjusted to filter out adult content.

These are just some beginning steps. We will cover more here on MAMC and the Mama Jabba email blast will have a technology glossary for mamas along with a breakdown of age appropriate guidelines for embracing technology safely (sign up here).

Don’t fear the change. We have a chance to educate ourselves and embrace the future. These are truly exciting times. Let’s take a walk on the cyber-side…