As a grandparent to a generation so different from my own, navigating the complexities of raising kids in this digital age has been quite a journey for me.
When my grandchildren first got their hands on devices, I couldn’t help but worry about how much time they spent on screens and what they might encounter online, especially with games that had chat features and the vast world of YouTube.
While I was aware of issues like cyber-bullying and internet addiction, I felt somewhat out of my depth. To ensure both their safety and my peace of mind, I decided to take a proactive approach and educate myself.
I had numerous heartfelt conversations with my daughter and son-in-law about online safety. I made it a point to engage with my grandchildren openly, creating a safe space where they could talk to me if anything ever felt off.
I became genuinely curious about the games and apps they were using, approaching it not with fear or judgment, but with a desire to understand and connect with them in their digital world. Occasionally, we even play games or watch videos together, which has been a great way to bond.
While I trust my daughter and her husband to handle the day-to-day monitoring of safety settings and screen time, I also keep a watchful eye when they’re with me. It’s a team effort to ensure their online experiences are positive and secure.
I’ve learned that leading by example is powerful. By showing healthy habits around my own technology use, I hope to guide them toward developing balanced digital behaviours.
Here are a few key tips that have guided me:
Foster open and honest discussions about online safety.
Encourage offline activities and set boundaries around screen time.
Stay curious about what they’re doing online and engage with them about it.
Educate yourself continuously on online safety measures.
Model healthy technology use yourself.
Utilise parental controls and family groups for added security.
If you’re looking for resources, the eSafety Commission website has been invaluable in providing information tailored for parents and grandparents alike.
By staying informed and engaged, we can create a safer digital environment for our children and grandchildren. Thank you.
* Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council member Jacque Lachmund is a mother of two, grandmother of four and a survivor of domestic violence. Jacque works collaboratively with workplaces to embed sustainable cultural change practice and performance.
