With accessibility to continuously evolving technology comes a responsibility for exercising good judgement.
I believe parents or guardians are facing a bit of a quandary, and leading by example is always our best bet.
What am I referring to, specifically?
Tablets, cell phones, video games — and all of the above.
Too often, parents are using technology as a babysitter for their children.
How many times have you sat in a restaurant and looked around to observe others dining with cell phones or tablets in front of them? Now, how many times have you caught yourself accessing your cell phone while dining with others? Sending text messages, checking Facebook, sending e-mails, and playing games seems to be a common theme among adults and children. There is less social interaction.
It’s taken me awhile to become annoyed with the intrusion of technology. I have a love-hate relationship with this stuff. While I may be a techie, I have concluded that there is a time and a place for this stuff.
First off, when I go to church, I leave my cell phone in the vehicle. Cell phones and tablets have no place in church. If we can’t pay attention to a sermon, adults or children, without the distraction of technology, then why are we there? Plus, there is a sentiment of disrespect from others who wish to be engaged in that experience.
Another place where I leave my cell phone in the vehicle is at family gatherings. When we get together for family gatherings, we should enjoy the company of others — without the distraction of technology. I never used to be this way, but I have learned.
And, of course, when I go to a restaurant, my cell phone stays in the vehicle. So far, there has never been a text message or phone call that I missed while dining with family and friends that was so earth-shattering that I had some sort of regret.
I’ve grown to understand and accept that while technological advancements are fascinating, they are not as significant as the most important reason we are on this planet. Our time spent together — absent technology — is why we are on this planet. Relationships. Face time.
As we raise our children in this village, I hope we are all on the same page. The use of technology has its place and time.
I hear adults complain about children playing video games too much, whether on a gaming station or tablet or cell phone, but who buys these devices? The adults. And, who gives these devices to children? The adults.
Maybe for this Christmas, the best gift for the family will be a board game…
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