A mom I follow on Twitter noted last night that her daughter has requested a media-free period between 5-10 pm. No phones, no laptop, no TV and no electronics. Charming in its simplicity but it has to make you think: Are parents too connected and can our children sense it?
True confessions: I tune my family out more than I should. It’s wrong but I do. While I love my kids and the time I spend with them, I also enjoy the hangin’ at the Twitter water cooler or seeing what my favorite bloggers are posting. So compelling.
So what to do?
It’s pretty clear, actually. As a dad I have to set a good example for my kids and that includes separating my Twitter/Blog time from my family time. Like so many things involving personal change, it’s nothing more than raw discipline and the firm decision to do what’s right.
If it’s not too late for resolutions, I plan to work on the following:
- Avoid my laptop between dinner and bedtime
- Avoid using my iPhone when out and about with my family except for important calls
- Never passively dismiss my kids for online activities
I really want my kids to a life that goes beyond online social networks and that can only begin with truly living that life myself. I’ve got some work to do. How about you?
Tip to @holly_t for the inspiration