Last week, my article revolved around what kind of person I would become if I were born today. This week, I want to shift that question toward us as parents: what can we do today to ensure our children become the right kind of people tomorrow, especially with the kind of distraction (from technology, social environment, etc.) that exists today? Why? Because whether we like it or not, the world has changed. And parenting must change with it (trust me, the generation today is in no way comparable to our (yesterday's) generation). Let me be clear, this is not about fear; it is about awareness.
Today’s children, especially Generation Z and Alpha, are growing up in a world that is faster, louder, and more influential than anything we experienced. Social media and network platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram are not just entertainment tools; they are shaping opinions, behaviour, and even identity. So what should we as parents do?
First, we must be present, not just physically, but mentally too. Many parents believe providing education, a good home, and comfort is enough. Trust me, that may not be enough today because the real battle is for the attention. If we are not actively present in our children’s lives, something else will take our place, and most likely, it will be a digital screen. Talk to your children. Not as an authority figure all the time, but as someone who listens. Ask them what they watch, who they follow, and what they think. You might be surprised by what you learn. I tried and continue to learn.
Second, we must understand technology before trying to control it. Banning devices completely is not realistic. This is their world. Instead, guide them. Teach them when to use technology, how to use it, and more importantly, when to disconnect from it. Obviously, we as parents need to keep updated on how technology works and is changing lives. Set boundaries. Not aggressive ones, but consistent ones. Screen time, sleep time, and family time should not be negotiable every day.
Third, we must rebuild respect and responsibility at home. One of the biggest shifts I see today is the changing relationship between children and parents. Respect is no longer automatic, as I had shared in my last week's article. Respect must be taught, demonstrated, and reinforced. Period! Respect starts at home. How we speak, how we listen, and how we behave sets the standard for our children.
Fourth, we must address the uncomfortable topics early. Let us be honest. Today’s children are exposed to things much earlier than we were. Whether it is peer pressure, harmful substances, or late-night social environments, pretending these issues do not exist will not protect our children. Open conversations will. Speak to your children about right and wrong. Not through fear, but through understanding.
Fifth, we must always teach and align them with values, not just rules. Rules can control behavior temporarily. Values shape decisions for life. This is where faith plays a powerful role. Teaching children discipline through prayer, patience through daily practice, and accountability through understanding right and wrong builds an internal compass, one that works even when we as parents are not around.
Lastly and most importantly, we must lead by example. Children do not only listen to what we say, but they also observe what we do. If we are constantly on our phones, they will be too. If we lack discipline, they will mirror it. If we show respect, patience, and balance, they will learn it naturally. Parenting today is not easy. In fact, it may be one of the most challenging responsibilities of our time. Trust me and ask me, J. But it is also one of the most important, because at the end of the day, we are not just raising children; we are raising the generation that will define what this world looks like tomorrow. Until we catch up again next week, take a moment to reflect, i.e., are we truly guiding our children, or simply hoping they will figure it out on their own? I look forward to further elaborating as we progress on parenting generations today!
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