Raising Kids In The Age Of Technology And Social Media

Technology for the most part has been remarkable in improving the quality of life of people. Gadgets and the internet can surely help children in many ways, too, as with long-distance communication, research, and apps that aid in education and learning.

But there are instances when technology can be problematic. There are all kinds of content online, and some of the more disconcerting issues brought about by the internet and social media include cyberbullying, sexual harassment, and pornography. Smartphones and tablets can also distract kids when they need to focus, like in studying.

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It is important to keep kids abreast with modern times and to help them learn how to use technology, but as with anything, parents need to provide guidance. Setting rules is one way to moderate. For example, using the tablet for games and social apps can be limited to certain hours, like in the evening after homework. It is up to the parent at what age they think social media is appropriate, but Facebook and Instagram require at least 13 years old.

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The parent also has to set an example by not being hooked to their devices either. Show the kids the importance of face-to-face interaction and the value in experiencing life outside of virtual reality.

I am Alpman Ilker. I work as a general contractor in Denver, but my family is the top of my priority. For more posts about family life lessons, like my Facebook page.

Hobbies That Should be Introduced to Children

Childhood is a very important stage in life. This is when children develop many qualities that will determine what kind of grown-ups they will be. Here are a few of the best hobbies children should be exposed to.

Martial Arts
Martial arts programs for children are all over the place. These are good places to start because they instill the essential qualities of discipline, self-confidence, and patience in children. Children who’ve gone through martial arts training are less likely to get affected by bullying, and have been known to be more emotionally stable.

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Music
Music is amazing for children because it opens a whole new world for them. They learn the beauty of songs that they only sing or dance to. They develop a sense of rhythm (which is a very underrated quality). And learning how play an instrument is a skill they can bring with them the rest of their lives.

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Swimming
Learning how to swim has two very important purposes – the actual learning how to swim itself, which is a very practical life skill, and the conquering of fear. The first few lessons can be terrifying for children. But once they get their feet paddling and they can do the different strokes and breathe in between, children are gifted with courage they’ve never known before then.

Alpman Ilker is a true blue family man from Denver, CO. He loves all kinds of family activities with his wife, their two kids, and Doug, their golden retriever. Learn more about fun family activities by subscribing to this Twitter account.

Family activities for the fall season

For some people, fall is the most beautiful season. Falling leaves, the chill in the air, an auburn hue all over the city, and soft breezes that playfully turn to sudden gusts – fall is indeed sleepily romantic. And yet, ‘tis a season not just for lovers; parents and their brood can figure into the season as well. Here are some great ideas for family ideas during the fall season.

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Fall festivals 

Fall festivals are a hit with the kids. They offer several fun activities that everyone (especially children) can engage in and learn from – from apple picking, to pumpkin carving, to arts and crafts workshops. Almost every town in the United States has its own version of a fall festival. Programs and activities may be different, but they all have one thing in common – they’re all fun for the entire family.  

Halloween 

This is arguably the third favorite annual event for kids next to their birthdays and Christmas. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for parents and children to decorate their homestead and think of ways to scare trick-or-treaters. Parents can also scope out family Halloween events and come up with matching costumes for the occasion.  

Thanksgiving 

This is usually the last major event before the winter season. As opposed to the first two events on this list, Thanksgiving is more toned-down. But make no mistake about it, Thanksgiving is an event for the entire family. Relatives return to their home town to be with their loved ones. Children get to see uncles, aunts, cousins, and grandparents. It may not be as fun-filled as other events, but it is meaningful, to say the least. 

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Alpman Ilker is the quintessential family man. Based in Denver, CO, he enjoys all kinds of family activities with his wife, their two kids, and Doug, their golden retriever. Alpman also enjoys tinkering with muscle cars during his spare time. For more on family activities in Denver, CO, follow this Twitter account.