When is it appropriate to introduce our kids to digital media?
The reality is that they are being born into a digital existence. They don’t see a separation between the physical and digital worlds. They are seamlessly integrated. And as long as we’re differentiating the two, we’re disconnecting from our kids.
AS PARENTS AND EDUCATORS WE’RE LEARNING AS WE GO, AND DOING OUR BEST TO NAVIGATE THE DIGITAL SOCIAL SPACE OURSELVES.
Because to them, there is no separation between online and offline. Their social world is completely blended into their physical world. To them, their reality is made up of both digital and face-to-face interactions. They do not see any difference.
DR. JILL WALSH, FOUNDER OF DIGITAL AGED, IS A RESEARCHER AND LECTURER AT BOSTON UNIVERSITY, AND AN ADVOCATE FOR OUR CHILDREN.
She studies their world, learns from their perspective, and translates that on a global scale to help close the generational gap. So that parents and educators are able to make informed decisions around the digital, social and emotional health of our kids.
At Digital Aged we know how important the social space is to your kids. And we want you to understand how they are experiencing life, so that you can meet them where they are and guide them through positive, open communication about their technology use. Instead of fighting with your kids about technology, video games, and phones, we believe our approach and reframing of technology in their lives will improve your relationship with your children and get them (or keep them) talking to you about the challenges they face in the digital space.
Work with Us
Consulting for Families
Dr. Walsh works with families in a variety of settings to help them create healthy and realistic technology boundaries as well as foster open, positive communication around technology . Below is a list of ways Dr. Walsh typically works with families, however all programming is customizable for the family/group.
- Presentations to parent groups (large or small) about specific technology topics of interest.
- Individual family technology counseling addressing topics such as: setting realistic boundaries around phone and gaming use; specific social challenges the child faces in the digital space; how to talk as a family about technology use without tears, threats, or yelling!
- Teen groups: Dr. Walsh leads groups of teens in an honest and fun discussion about the highs and lows of technology. Dr. Walsh will offer ideas and suggestions, but this is a group discussion and we will all learn from each other. This is an opportunity to talk honestly and strategize in a supportive environment with peers and an adult who isn’t a parent or teacher! Groups can be customized for age, gender identity, and interest.
Training for Educational Institutions
Dr. Walsh works with schools and their constituents to help close the communication gap between adults and students. She speaks and consults on a variety of technology topics and tailors all programming needs to fit the culture and needs of the institution.
- Presentations to the parent community about specific technology topics. Dr. Walsh offers research-based practical strategies that parents can employ to make positive changes at home.
- Student workshops on topics such as how social media is used in the college process or how to navigate social dynamics in digital space.
- Work with administrators to evaluate the technology environment on campus through surveys and focus groups. Dr. Walsh can help identify areas of tension, missed opportunities, and provide research-based support for policies.
- Create age appropriate curricula to target specific challenges and concerns. Dr. Walsh implements the program or trains teachers to implement the curricula.
- Professional development for faculty and staff to help them navigate the academic and social opportunities and challenges their students face in the digital space.
Downloadables
IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR A PHONE?
So many people ask if there is a specific age at which a tween or teen can handle an iPhone. While I don’t think that there many positives for a young child having a phone, I don’t believe there is one set age that works for every kid and family. It is about developmental readiness and really, the first question is whether the parents are ready for the child to have a phone…
SCREEN TIME: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
We all have different ideas about how much screen time is too much, and you can find research that advocates strict limits and other research that advocates no limits. And everything in between! I have been intrigued recently with what some researchers refer to as the “Goldilocks” amount of tech consumption; not too much, but not too little either.