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Technology is the topic moms most ask us to cover. Why? Because we are pioneer parenting here. We are the first ones to navigate smart phones, streaming services and social media. We are not going to get it perfect BUT we can listen to experts, share wisdom we’ve learned and ask God to help us. Screens are not new to God–he knew they were coming and he is giving us the tools to have victory over them and even use them for GOOD.
STATS YOU NEED:
Americans check their phones an average of 144 times a day, which is a 58% decrease from their last cell phone usage survey published in January 2022. However, we’re also spending an average of four hours and 25 minutes each day on our phones, up 30% from last year.
From Raising Boys and Girls Podcast Bark Interview:
On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day watching or using screens, and teens spend up to 9 hours.
With regards to sexual content, 70% of tweens and 91% of teens encountered nudity or content of a sexual nature
75% tweens and 93% of teens engaged in conversations about drugs and alcohol
72% tweens and 85% experienced bullying as a bully, victim or witness
10% tweens and 21% teens experienced predators
97.5% increase in online enticement reports
You may have some great ideas of your own. Here are a few suggestions to keep them safe:
- All phones, laptops, tablets must be used in a common area (living room, kitchen, family room, etc.)
- Daily/weekly time limits
- Seek permission before using a device
- Seek permission before installing any new apps
- All devices get turned in/off at bedtime
- Your device is a privilege not a right
- Do not share any personal information online
- Do not enter chats with unknows individuals online
A few suggestions to help with moderation:
- Set limits on apps
- Set downtime
- Have screen free zones
- Consider a tech sabbath
TRUTH:
2 Peter 1:3
His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness
Ephesians 6:10-11
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
1 Peter 5:8-9
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
RESOURCES:
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