Two Basic Suggestions Regarding the Use of Technology

I showed this video recently at conference. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRl8EIhrQjQ

There was a powerful reaction from the audience, including from those who had seen it before. I do not like what technology and social media are doing to human relationships, particularly within families and friendships (as depicted in this video). People are less connected. People are making less eye contact. People are plugged in and tuned out to the people right in front of them. It is becoming more and more difficult for people to find balance.

I came across two articles regarding suggestions to make some very basic changes regarding the use of technology. If you are feeling like you/your child need to make some changes, I suggest starting with these two basic changes (and read the articles to see why): 1) Avoid using technology during morning family time before work/school http://www.handsfreemama.com/2015/10/07/break-this-habit-to-create-more-time-goodness-in-your-day/

2) Keep technology out of the bedroom (yours and your child’s).

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/parents-kids-smartphones_us_5600226fe4b0fde8b0cef8f3

Oh, and one more!  Make a family rule not to use technology during short car rides (driving your child to school/activities).  Because it is during these down times that we get to share thoughts and ideas, or just daydream.  Because this is where the magic happens.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like me to conduct a workshop on helping parents manage their children’s use of technology and social media.  (PTA/PTO, parent group, church group, group of friends, etc).