10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World

10 RULES FOR RAISING KIDS IN A HIGH-TECH WORLD is the latest by professor of psychology at San Diego State University, Jean M. Twenge (iGen). Here, she writes about “How Parents Can Stop Smartphones, Social Media, and Gaming from Taking Over Their Children's Lives.” Building on her own research and that conducted with Jonathan Haidt (Anxious Generation). Twenge offers statistics and graphs to support her arguments, and she also pulls in real life examples from her own family’s experiences. While some of her rules seem reasonable and doable (e.g., no electronic devices in the bedroom overnight), others seem rather harsh and unrealistic (no social media until sixteen – or later). Still, she has a very important message to convey (covered recently in both The New York Times and The Washington Post) and does so in an accessible way. As more parents listen to this and encourage more schools to limit cellphone use, we will hopefully see some changes in behavior, with increased face-to-face interaction and improved mental health for adolescents. The Post’s book reviewer, Ron Charles, says his favorite part of 10 RULES FOR RAISING KIDS IN A HIGH-TECH WORLD is that “each chapter includes your kids’ best arguments — e.g. ‘If I don’t have social media, I won’t know what my friends are talking about’ — and how you should respond.” He also recommends “the cool, understanding friend of Twenge’s book…. designed specifically for kids and teens:” Do Not Disturb: How to Say No to Your Phone by Brad Marshall and Lindsay Hassock. School Library Journal recommends that short (96 page) text for grades five and up and Kirkus says, “Put down your phone and pick up this valuable and accessible read for everyone navigating the digital age.” Have a look at these and spark some conversations in your family and school community.