The statistics are staggering. The average person spends nearly 11 hours a day looking at a screen, and checks their phone 150 times a day. In this era of technological wave, how do parents nurture their children? The Bible tells us to teach and nurture our children to walk in the ways of the Lord (Proverbs 22:4-6). As straight-forward as it may sound, but it takes time to nurture our children, particularly when they were born in a different era from us.
Those who were born after 1980 are named digital natives while most of these kids’ parents are digital immigrants. If we can bridge this gap, we are more than half way in bringing them up in the way of the Lord. By stepping in their digital environment, we as parents are embodying the message of divine incarnation (John 1:14).
According to the research of Christian educator Shaunti Feldhahn, kids want parents to make the effort to understand their life and their world, and be a part of it. It sends the message that if parents care enough about their child and who he or she really is, that they’re willing to step into an unfamiliar social environment, it then sends a clear invitation that they can trust their parents.
I believe this trust paves way for any parent to teach and nurture their kids. Over the years, my wife and I have learned a few things when it comes to the relationship with our children and what parenting is like in the digital age.
1. Set boundaries for them. Limit their screen time on computers, tablets/iPad, phones and TV. This may still work with younger kids. So start exercising this authority early.
2. Get to know what they are doing online and show interest in them. Questions like “What are you researching/watching/playing?” “Why is it interesting you?” “What do you think about that?” can often lead to deeper and more meaningful conversations if we are ready mentally and emotionally.
3. Learn to play their favourite video game with them in order to embody the God-with-us life. Have fun with them.
4. Make time to engage in non-digital activities with them, e.g. taking a walk together after dinner, listening to songs together, playing sports and fun activities together.
You may have other interesting ideas and activities unique to your family situation. Feel free to share with others. Let’s grow together and nurture our kids in godly ways.