Parents generally find it very challenging dealing with their childrens’ schoolwork/homework needs. After all, it has been quite some time since we did those subjects and there have also been numerous changes. This is normally addressed with significant effort on our part and also the enlistment of tutors and various other tools, including computer use. The computer now presents another challenge, since this is a device that has only come into widespread use in the 90′s and internet use a while after that. So parents (and some teachers) find themselves at an even greater disadvantage. The unfortunate response to this is an abdication of all controls with respect to computer use and as a result children end up using the devices to satisfy their needs (which are not always consistent with generally accepted educational pursuits) and the effectiveness of the computer gets lost in distractions (of which there are many).
What the parent/teacher needs to do is to regain the upper hand in this sphere and be in a position to teach/guide the children effectively. You are now forced to learn something, not for the second time (as with English, Mathematics etc.) but for the first time. Indeed it is one of the only subjects that you are now at a lower level than your child. What a quandary! Since we are now adults and always like to appear “all knowing” to our children, we are faced with a private moment of realisation that is very hard for us to address. We then look for all sorts of excuses for our ignorance or let them “run wild” with the technology. This is where the danger lies. Parents need to find sources and support groups that can adequately provide the knowledge that they need, and I encourage them do to so. Letting children use this tool in an irresponsible manner is more dangerous than giving a power saw to a 2 yr. old. Take the time and address this gap in your arsenal of knowledge and your childrens’ lives will be significantly enriched.
