According to technology historian Melvin Kranzberg, “technology is neither good nor bad – nor is it neutral.” That’s true. What matters most is how technology is being used and inculcated in one’s life. After all, it can reach to a larger demographic, influencing people from seven to seventy.

That being said, it is safe to say that every parent has a special role to play when it comes to technology.

The question now is how able are you in flexing your child-rearing muscles to make sure your kids benefit from technology in a good way.

Parents and technology: Who is more powerful?

Here’s the truth: technology has become accessible these days, even younger kids have their own smartphone or iPad. Sure, technology is powerful but that doesn’t mean parents, who grew up with no cell phones, tablets and Facebook back in the day, are weaklings in the digital world.

What can parents do?

Obviously, throwing every form of gadget in your home is next to impossible. And living on a cave until the end of the world comes in isn’t the brightest idea too.

When it comes to the role of parents in technology use, the best you can do is to become both a partner and a role model in this digital world.

You can’t deny the fact that certain devices can aid in learning and development and even promote a child’s curiosity. Therefore, every parent should be involved in a child’s mobile learning. In line with this, parents should ask themselves the following:

• Does my child spend most of his/her time in technology?
• What type of content are they exposed too?
• Am I giving reasonable limits and guidelines when it comes to technology use?
• Do I employ techniques that can balance the use and non-use of technology?

Use these questions to determine whether technology is good or bad for your child.

Protecting your kids against the dangers of technology

Despite its many benefits, the online world can still be a venue for cyber bullying and privacy violations among others. Therefore, the role of parents in technology use is to maintain supervision and (reasonable) control over your kids.

Blocking sites, television programs or apps that may potentially expose your kids to child predators is only one of the many ways you can do to make sure your child is safe online.

Bottom Line

The role of parents in technology use may seem complicated and complex. But by paying extra attention to your child’s needs and reaching out to them, you’ll be able to identify the factors that might affect your child’s development.