With summer just around the corner, more technology will be entering our lives. The effects of technology is an emerging field. The iPhone has been in our lives since 2007, Facebook since 2004, Instagram since 2010, Fortnite since 2017, and new apps are introduced every day. So in these 15+ years, what have we learned?

§ Kids are more connected than ever, but report being more lonely than ever

§ Video games remove the imagination; your game does that for you!

§ American children spend more time in front of screens than any other activity other than sleep

§ Our brain is a multi-switcher, not multi-tasker; we are working harder not more effective {re-orientation, changing view, practicing being distractible}

§ Minecraft and “creativity”: research indicates a decrease in creativity with increased levels of playing

§ ADHD and screen time: research suggests lowering screen time will mitigate effects

§ A child’s primary connection is family which helps fight against depression; and teens who spend more time on screens are less attached to their parents

§ Schools that ban students’ use of phone have kids with higher test scores

Technology is amazing and will continue to evolve, how do we use it to create connections instead of severing them?

§ On family trip in the car play “pass the cord” instead, each member of the family plays a song from their phone {for Bluetooth-enabled vehicles simply take turns}

§ Provide a charging station in a common area at night

§ Create a device-free dinner

§ Parents model behaviors and good habits

o iPhone has a tracker, review with your kids and discuss

o Talk about your own shock reviewing our usage!

Benefits of limiting technology?

§ Due to arousal from video games, it takes 2 ½ times longer to fall asleep because the mind is still on the game, adrenaline is surging, and dopamine is being released

§ Sleep is how we encode the day’s information for long-term memory; difficult to do if not sleeping

Common Technology Executive Parents Rules:

§ Strong gadget limits on weekdays especially

§ Computers only being used for homework on school nights

§ Emphasize print books at home

§ Game-Free Home

§ Postpone providing smartphones and data plans for kids for as long as possible

o Bill and Melinda Gates' kids did not have smartphones until 14, then admitted felt that age was still too early

o Steve Jobs’ children did not have an iPad

Our children are still learning how to regulate their lives. Education is important, including education about technology. Know that limits are okay, and it is okay if our children do not agree. And remember, you are in charge of the Wi-Fi password :)