4 Reasons Why I Let My Kids Go Online

It could be argued that children are introduced to technology too early, use technology too much and that it can affect their physical and emotional development milestones.

And, if not kept in check, all of these statements could most definitely be true. As with most things in life, balance is the key. Our children are ‘digital natives’. Technology is ingrained into almost every aspect of their lives and in many cases it greatly enhances their life experiences.

Here are the 4 Reasons Why I Let My Kids Go Online

1. Because they live in a ‘Digital World’

They use iPads at school, mobile phones to make calls, create videos and take pictures. They use computers to do their homework and watch movies. This is part of how they live their everyday life.

2. Because it benefits their learning experiences

They have access to interactive websites where they learn at their own pace and receive immediate feedback on their progress. They use the internet to perform research on a global level. They can bring their iPads home from school and show us what they have been working on.

One of my personal favourites – I can email their teachers about non-urgent issues. This means that I can communicate with them without having to be late for work or plan around their staff meetings.

3. Because it allows them to stay in touch

Many families are widespread these days. We have family who live interstate. Family members who we love dearly and would like to have in our children’s everyday lives. Apps like Skype and Facetime give our children an opportunity to have interactions with their relatives that they wouldn’t otherwise have if they were just talking on the phone.

4. Because it helps to expand their interests

One of my children has a special interest in interior design. Another likes mermaids. The internet has allowed them to research and find pictures that continue to keep them excited about learning. They love to bring the iPad over to show me what they have found. This helps to create conversations and they enjoy sharing what they have learnt with me.

Why did I share the 4 reasons I let my kids go online with you?

You know that I am passionate about internet safety but that doesn’t mean that I don’t want my kids to use the internet. I believe that they are many great opportunities available to them online.

I have tools in place to maintain a level of safety that I am constantly re-assessing. We have regular, open conversations about internet safety and related issues such as cyber-bullying and what to do if they come across something that is inappropriate or they don’t understand.

I would love to hear the reasons why you let your children go online! Please feel free to share by commenting.

Enjoy the internet with your child today!

Comments

Not-So-TechDad says

July 22, 2016 at 3:27 pm

I’d love to see a follow-up article that gives parents tips on different questions we can ask (maybe for different age groups), that would lead to these open conversations about internet safety. Nice work! 🙂

- TheTechMum says
  
  July 22, 2016 at 4:26 pm
  
  Hi Not-So-TechDad
  
  Thankyou for your suggestion – what a great idea!
  
  Keep an eye out!
  
  Nic

4 Reasons Why I Let My Kids Go Online