Preteens and Technology
“Not a baby, not a teen, but somewhere in between.” Welcome to the world of preteens! That phase where the once permanently attached smile on your little one’s face might start to wane, replaced by a sudden annoyance with the world. Yes, preteens are here, and so begins an interesting chapter in both your life and theirs.
As your child transitions from a toddler to a teen, the changes can be both fascinating and challenging. Every child is different, but they all undergo some sort of transformation during these years. Staying aware and understanding of these changes is crucial, especially when you throw technology and social media into the mix. The online world offers a vast number of opportunities for creativity, learning, and exploration, but it also presents new challenges. Social media platforms introduce a level of interaction where strangers can comment, like, and save your child’s content, making it imperative to guide them responsibly.
“Not a baby, not a teen, but somewhere in between.” Welcome to the world of preteens!
Adapting to the New Age of Parenting
Parenting in the digital age is a whole new ballgame. The internet and evolving technology have reshaped how we guide and protect our children. One of the most significant changes is the need to monitor what our kids are watching and posting online. But how do we adapt to these new challenges without stifling their creativity or breaking their trust?
Here are six ways to help your child navigate technology responsibly:
1. Teach Responsibility
Start by teaching your child about responsibility and setting clear expectations. Explain the dos and donts of online behavior, so they know what’s allowed and the consequences of crossing the line. Trust and responsibility go hand in hand—by giving them the chance to prove they are responsible, you’re also showing them that you trust them.
2. Join Them
If your child wants to join a social media platform for creative purposes, don’t push them away out of fear of the unknown. Instead, join them in their digital world. Follow them on their platforms, watch their videos, and see who’s interacting with them. While it’s important to be present, avoid being overbearing. Trust is crucial at this stage, and maintaining an open and honest relationship is key to fostering that trust.
3. Make It Fun
Technology has unleashed a wave of creativity, and your child might have a talent they’re eager to share with the world. Whether it’s making videos, creating art, or sharing stories, find ways to make the process enjoyable for them. Learn how to edit videos, add filters, provide costumes and props, and experiment with different locations. The more fun they have, the more they’ll enjoy exploring their creative side.
4. Establish Bedtime Boundaries
Set a bedtime routine where your child turns in their phone, turns off the lights, and gets a good night’s sleep. This is also a good time for you to take a quick look through their phone for anything that might be concerning. While some parents might think this is inappropriate, remember that preteens (ages 9-12) are still highly impressionable. They may not fully understand when something is harmful to their well-being, so it’s okay to be protective. Your primary role as a parent is to guide and safeguard them.
5. Utilize Parental Controls
Parental controls have become more sophisticated, and they’re a useful tool for ensuring your child’s online safety. Even though kids might be more tech-savvy than their parents these days, don’t shy away from using these controls. They’re particularly helpful for younger teens under thirteen. Take the time to research, review manuals, and adjust the settings on their devices to limit access to inappropriate sites and apps.
6. Stay Aware of Changes
Allow your child to make mistakes and learn from them as they grow. Things won’t always stay the same—your child will get older, and technology will continue to evolve. Don’t get stuck in old patterns. Stay updated on the latest technological trends and keep an eye on your child’s changing interests. Knowing and understanding the young adult they’re becoming will help you guide them more effectively.
Remember: Sharing locations is crucial at any age, primarily for safety reasons. Always ensure your child understands the importance of this practice.
13 Creative Niches for Your Preteen
If your child is eager to explore the online world, consider guiding them toward niches that are both age-appropriate and creatively stimulating. Here are some ideas:
- Educational games and apps
- Children’s books
- Coloring and activity books
- Toy reviews (playing with toys is trendy!)
- Story creation
- Gardening
- Painting
- Supervised cooking channel
- Decorating
- Crafting
- Funny video skits
- Science experiments
- Music and dance
By embracing these strategies, you can help your preteen navigate the digital world with confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of responsibility. It’s not just about keeping them safe; it’s about empowering them to make smart choices that will serve them well as they grow. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, equipping your child with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed is essential.
By teaching them responsibility, you’re laying the foundation for trust—an essential element in their development. Joining them in their online activities shows that you care about their interests and are willing to support them, helping to build a stronger parent-child relationship. Making the use of technology fun and educational ensures that your child sees it as a tool for growth, rather than just a means of entertainment.
Establishing clear boundaries, like bedtime routines and the use of parental controls, helps to create a safe online environment, while also teaching them about the importance of balance and moderation. Staying aware of changes in technology and in your child’s behavior keeps you proactive in addressing potential issues before they escalate.
Ultimately, by guiding your preteen through these formative years with patience and understanding, you’re not just protecting them—you’re helping them develop the confidence to explore, create, and thrive in the digital world. This approach nurtures their curiosity and encourages them to take ownership of their actions, preparing them for the responsibilities of the future. As they learn to navigate the complexities of the online world, they’ll carry these lessons with them, growing into capable, informed, and responsible digital citizens.
