In reply to Hope3415.

Thanks so much for your kind words, Hope3415. I totally understand those moments – when nothing seems to work and your child just shuts down. It’s really tough, but you’re not alone.

When that happens, I try to pause and just be present. Sometimes saying, “I can see this is hard. I’m here when you’re ready,” helps more than pushing forward. Our kids need connection before correction.

A little movement, a hug, or even a silly distraction can help reset the moment. Later, when things are calm, I gently ask what made it feel so overwhelming. Often, breaking tasks into tiny steps or letting them choose where to start makes a big difference.

And honestly, some days just need a reset for both of us. You’re doing a great job—just asking this question shows how much you care. 💛

These strategies sound really helpful—thank you! I’m wondering, how do you handle situations when my child completely shuts down or refuses to follow through, even with clear goals and rewards in place? Any tips for when nothing seems to work in the moment?

In reply to Thank you for shedding ligh.

Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s precisely these real-life situations that underline the importance of preparing our children for the digital world. I’m glad the article resonated with you and offered some guidance. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to support each other in raising responsible digital citizens. Stay connected for more insights, and always feel free to reach out with questions or feedback.

I’m so grateful for this insight! Just last week, my daughter faced a challenging situation online, and I felt unequipped to guide her. These tips on digital etiquette and fostering empathy are invaluable. It’s essential that we don’t just hand our kids devices without also teaching them how to navigate the digital landscape responsibly and kindly. I’ll definitely be sharing this with other parents. Thank you for shedding light on such a pivotal topic.

In reply to S.

I am very sorry to hear that. The response you’re seeking is towards the end of the article. However, it’s crucial to go through all the linked articles. While there might be similarities, each situation is unique. Seek to understand the underlying reasons for your child’s actions. Embrace this as an opportunity to strengthen your bond. Moving forward from the past and focusing on understanding rather than punishment can be genuinely transformative.

I’ve had a similar experience with my child. It’s reassuring to know I’m not alone. How did the author approach the situation with their friend’s daughter

From the moment you hand over your gadget to your child.
However, it’s generally a good idea to start introducing the topic of online safety at a young age, even as early as preschool or kindergarten.

Here’s a rough guideline:

Preschool (Ages 3-5):

Start with very basic concepts of safety, such as not talking to strangers online (just like in real life).
Introduce the idea that some things on the internet are not meant for kids.
Early Elementary (Ages 6-9):

Begin discussing the importance of not sharing personal information like their full name, address, or phone number online.
Teach them about the concept of privacy and that not everything should be shared.
Pre-Teen (Ages 10-12):

Dive deeper into topics like cyberbullying, online scams, and the potential consequences of sharing inappropriate content.
Explain the importance of being cautious about the information they share and who they interact with online.
Introduce the idea of responsible social media use, even if they’re not on these platforms yet.
Teenagers (Ages 13+):

Continue discussing more advanced topics like digital reputation, the permanence of online actions, and the potential legal consequences of certain online behaviors.
Encourage open communication and let them know you’re there to help if they encounter any online issues.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and you should adapt your approach based on your child’s individual maturity, technology exposure, and their readiness to understand these concepts. It’s also important to maintain an ongoing conversation about online safety, as the digital landscape is continually evolving, and new risks may emerge as children grow older and gain more independence online.

At what age should we explain to children about the dangers of the internet?