When asked what qualities you wish to teach your child, where does “happy” fall on that list? In our fast paced world where technology takes over, addiction comes in many forms, depression and bullying are synonymous, and aggression is an outlet, is there room for happiness? And if so, how do we raise happy children in a digital age?
Kids are simple beings, and if they try to achieve something and it doesn’t work out, they can easily go into a dark place of self-blame and feeling like a failure. However if parents prepare them ahead of time to accept that things in life aren’t always easy, then they will accept their situation. How to do this exactly? Teach your child that he should keep trying. Try, fail, and try again. This teaches resilience, bouncing back, learning and improving.
Social media makes it easy for kids to rely on their online friends for validation, and they measure their worth with likes and comments. If they compare their digital content to those of their peers and find that they fall short in terms of popularity, this will lead them to depression. Instead, try to teach your child self-worth and choose an activity tailored to him that once accomplished, will make him feel better without comparing to anyone else.
One of the pillars of a content person is gratitude, but instead of teaching your child this through a tedious lecture which will not guarantee he listens, use technology to your advantage to get through. Watch TV shows that include a life lesson and point out how the characters were grateful for what they have, that possessions are temporary and friends, family and health are what count.
Sometimes a little time off from the digital world is much needed, and nature is the best therapist. A walk outside, a ball game, a picnic or anything that reminds your child that he occupies a small space in this beautiful and vast world is essential to see the bigger picture and not get caught up in details.
While many phone applications offer real time video chat with friends and relatives which is great for fostering connections and staying in touch despite distance issues, the importance of a real eye to eye conversation is worth much more. As parents we must try to reduce our screen time and encourage our kids to talk to us, once they feel that they are being heard and they are important, it will reduce the risk of them shutting off completely.
Instead of viewing the negative aspects of our modern technologically charged age, it is much better to accept and adapt. This way we get through to our kids, ensure they are sharing their moments with us and most importantly, striving for their happiness.
