Technology and Teens Reshape Family Communication
Technology and teens now move in step. Parents say the pace leaves them out of the loop.
Teens swap handwritten notes and landline calls for mobiles, texts, instant messaging, chat rooms and blogs. Many keep long buddy lists and post on sites such as Facebook and MySpace. Pew Internet’s “Teens and Technology” reports 84% of teens own at least one media device: a computer, cell phone or PDA.
Parents can meet teens where they are. Learn the tools, then use them to make quick contact without public calls that embarrass teens. A short text can ask where they are, who they are with, and when they will be home. You can also send a text from a computer; ask your child to send a text to your email so you know the address format. IncredibleInternet.com offers general guidance on getting started.
Understand The Language
Teen communication relies on fast, simple shorthand. Adopting some of it can open doors. Key terms:
- Instant Messaging
- Chat Room
- Buddy List
- Blogs
- Text Messaging (SMS)
For plain-English definitions, NetLingo.com provides glossaries. NoSlang.com interprets common online slang. Learning a few basics shows respect and improves response.
A Connected Family
Email, chat and IM keep families and friends in touch. Teachers often encourage email to reach parents and students. NetDay.org reported students also use these tools to discuss projects, tests, homework shortcuts and school assignment websites.
Useful sites mentioned in the guidance include:
- picasa.net
- webshots.com
- aim.com
- teleflip.com
- phonescoop.com
These tools help with photos, messaging, and mobile know-how. They also help families plan meals, shop online, and manage time together.
Be a Smart, Safe User
Technology brings benefits and risks. Basic safety steps:
- Keep life balanced offline.
- Share information with care; it spreads easily.
- Protect privacy; never give personal details to strangers.
- Do not allow meetings with people first met online.
- Place the home computer where activity is visible.
- Talk often about appropriate internet use at home and school.
- Use common sense; avoid risky sites and behavior.
- If something inappropriate occurs, report it to CyberTipline.com. Tell children to alert an adult immediately when something feels wrong.
- Take the Parent Safety-Net Test at IncredibleInternet.com for practical tips.
More safety resources: NetSmartz.org and kids.getnetwise.org.
In short, parents can strengthen ties by learning the tools teens prefer. With a few habits, technology and teens can work together for clearer, safer communication.
