Sending Our Children to the Front Lines of the Internet’s War of Words.
Words, in many ways, are the most lethal weapons in a persons arsenal. A quick visit to the comments section of any platform will demonstrate how words can be used to belittle, berate and bombard others.
The internet continues to fuel polarization, which often ignites wars or words across nearly every platform on the internet.
It is impossible for DADS™ to shield their children from all hateful and destructive rhetoric — But must we send them to the front lines of this increasingly hostile war?
When children are given unrestricted access to the internet, particularly social media, the front line is precisely where they find themselves — exposed to harmful and hateful ideas that can have lasting consequences to their confidence, ability to demonstrate empathy, and critical thinking.
Many children have wandered down dangerous roads they should never have been permitted to take, and have been wounded emotionally and mentally as a result.
We have a duty to inoculate our children through guided exposure — they will never learn to be capable and strong if we shelter and shield from every uncomfortable and untrue communication.
It is wise for us to share a variety of content with our children — news from different outlets, influencer created, articles, videos and images — and then use the following questions as a basic toolkit to help them navigate and think critically about what they are seeing. The younger we start this the more proficient they will become.
Who made this?
Not all sources and creators have equal credibility. Be especially cautious when a creator’s identity cannot be seen or verified.
What is the creators purpose?
Is the content meant to inform, educate, inspire, encourage — or manipulate, sell or provoke?
What is missing?
We are rarely presented with the full story. Explore other sources and perspectives to uncover a more complete picture.
What is the message?
Lots of content is created to convey a specific message — political, social, commercial, religious, or otherwise. What are they really trying to say?
How does the message make me feel?
Bad actors often try to evoke strong emotions — like fear, uncertainty, anger — to influence us. Pay attention to your emotions as you consume content.
Can I verify this?
Can this information be fact-checked against other credible sources? Something being repeated or popular does not make something true.
Is this true?
Sometimes we have to stop, think, and rely on our gut. But we should never stop pursuing the truth.
I really hope this helps you as you continue to raise your children.
From my home,
Matthew
Founder, DADS™— Dads Against Devices™
Our pledge.
I will not provide my children with a smartphone or social media access until they become adults. Nor will I allow unlimited, unrestricted or unmonitored access to the internet, streaming services, gaming, or screens in our home. Instead, I will lead my family — by example and instruction — to be present, build relationships, strengthen the body, and nurture the attributes of love, communication, empathy, kindness, gratitude, humility, forgiveness, critical thinking, imagination, discipline, patience, integrity, resilience, courage, wisdom, and faith.