Kids Today
2008 November 14
“No matter how calmly you try to referee, parenting will eventually produce bizarre behavior, and I’m not talking about the kids. Their behavior is always normal.” — Bill Cosby
I know every generation grows up and looks upon the newer generation as if they were some sort of aliens or something. My parents thought break dancing was the most bizarre thing ever. They couldn’t understand my music and thought my clothes were hideous. I know this is universal. I certainly don’t understand the whole oversized jeans hanging down to mid-cheek with boxers showing thing. But that doesn’t bother me that much, it’s just a trend…kids trying to show their independence and be “different” (even though they are really conforming, just not with their parents). But I digress…
Having said all of that, there is one area in which our generation is breaking new ground. Technology. Cell phones, computers, portable video games, etc. Sure, during our childhoods there were breakthroughs in technology like VCRs, microwaves, answering machines, caller ID, etc. But the technology available today is portable. Kids have cell phones and laptops. Let me repeat that….kids have CELL PHONES and LAPTOPS!
What the….??!! WHY does a child need either of these? Ok, you could make the argument that a cell phone is a great way to keep in touch with your child. I get that part. However, they can also download porn and chat with God-knows-who on their cell phones. And laptops? What, are they running major corporations from the bus stop?! I don’t even have a laptop. I don’t even want a laptop. I don’t have any need to be that mobile and the keyboard and mouse suck. Plus, WiFi isn’t dependable anywhere in public. But again, I digress…
My EIGHT year old son wants a laptop and a cell phone for Christmas. Why do you ask? BECAUSE SOME OF HIS FRIENDS HAVE THEM!! There is not a chance in hell that Santa is bringing these items to my beloved youngest son, and I have explained that to him in no uncertain terms.
The question is…what are these parents thinking that give these items to their kids?! I try very hard not to be judgmental and how others’ choose to parent is certainly none of my business. I wouldn’t want anyone criticizing my parenting. But seriously…WTF??!!!
What are your thoughts on this subject?
I’m with you on this one. Some parents think being a good parent means never saying “no.” They’ll find out in a few years that, well, maybe that was the wrong approach. Let the kids be kids for a while. Cell phones are nice once the kids are in middle school so you can keep tabs on them.
If he wants one that bad get him an emergency phone that only calls 911 and you!
No way. No cell phones for our kids. Not until they’re in their own apartment and paying for it themselves.
As far as a TV… we’re getting one for their playroom, but only because I want to be able to watch grown up shows in the livingroom, not the playroom!
Great post!
I agree! We are even slightly more conservative over here when it comes to technology for kids. I wouldn’t mind putting a TV/DVD player in my son’s room (he’s 5) but my dh is totally against it. At least until he can ask for it. I don’t understand why some 2 & 3 yr olds have TVs with Cable for crying outloud. It is not a necessity, like a bed or dresser. Even if you can afford the extra hook up for Cable, does you toddler need TV? NO WAY! Furthermore, TV is a stimulant…..wonder why they won’t sleep?! OK, I digress!
Cell phones and lap tops….absolutely not!