The Normalcy Exodus

If we, as adults, don’t have the self control to resist the lull of the limitless smartphone, how do we expect an adolescent to?

Article after article warns us about the danger of phones and screen time. About the deterioration of the family because of it. Yet we continue still. Why?

Because it was designed for us. And it’s evolution is based on us. It’s a we- move-they-move scenario. They are adapting to what we want. WE are their research focus.

How do we triumph against such a targeting pursuit?

1. Turn your phone back into a phone. Use a tablet or computer for social media, emails, and banking, etc. Convenience is not an excuse.

2. Get your kid a smart watch that allows calls and texting with preset contacts managed by you.

3. Watch TV on the TV. The show can wait. Watching on your phone will triple your screen time. (We’ve moved to DVDs to bypass the dangerous content on streaming platforms)

4. Get a land line. These can still be obtained and the VoIP options are simple and cheap.

5. Stop handing your kid your phone. It likely has no parental controls or safety mechanisms. Giving them your phone means throwing them to the wolves of the world, and these wolves will pounce on their vulnerability and devour their innocence while wearing a smile.

Not all innovation is good for humanity. We will never restore the value of the whole family if we aren’t willing to take a breath, think objectively, and simplify life down to its highest intended priorities: each other.