I Do Not Want to Raise a Digital Junkie

Raising children in the digital revolution is both amazing and challenging.

I love being able to Facebook to keep in touch with friends. I visit my daughter's school website often for updates, events and lunch menus. I visit several social media/blog/advice sites weekly. My two-year old can navigate the computer like a pro. He turns it on, logs on to Playhouse Disney and watches videos or plays games. My seven year old daughter has her own MP3 player and digital camera (a real one-not the kid toy version). That said, am I okay with raising a digital junkie?

Just this weekend, my 13 year old nephew said he refuses to take the bus because the kids are not allowed to text while on the bus. Seriously? This really hit a nerve with me. Is he so hooked that he cannot wait the twenty minute bus ride to start texting friends he just left? Again, seriously?? I told him "I’d be damned before I let my daughter be the same way."

Later that evening, I told my husband I was serious about what I said at dinner. He completely agreed. Now what? What can we do to keep her from becoming a digital junkie? Yes, when my kids reach Middle School, they will get cell phones. I just think it is safer. Although, I am definitely considering phones with good parental controls. That said, I need to figure out how to create a balance. I do not want my children to feel like "outsiders" because they are not doing what all the other kids are doing. I don’t want my children to resent me for my choices. But I also will not tolerate kids who cannot go twenty minutes without their phone. That is insanely ridiculous.

How do I find the balance?