Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs I talk to so many parents who are scared to set tech boundaries with their kids when they could very easily just cancel the phone contract, turn off the WiFi and/or throw the phone in the pool. It really is that simple. We are their parents – not their besties.And if you’re struggling to catch your breath as a parent over the school holidays and giving them some screen time allows you a little bit of adult catch-up time for work and errands, please understand that the juggle is a struggle for everyone. All the time. And especially during the Christmas school holidays.Managing kids and their devices is hard, but as the parent, you’re also the one that’s in control of those devices. Because without a contract, it’s just a plastic box.And if you’ve led your kids to believe that they’re in control of them, then you really will have a problem on your hands when school goes back and ongoing into the future.So how can we as parents manage kids’ expectations, while also allowing them to connect with their friends digitally these school holidays?My teens have gotten used to a “pay per play” system, where they have to earn time on their phones and devices by being helpful humans.LoadingThey make their beds, walk the dog, and generally clean up after themselves to earn the right “to get on” and then have to do extra bits and bobs to earn some screen time. This gives them a daily reminder that their phones are a privilege, not a right.The thing we must remember as parents is that all our kids will make mistakes. Just like we all did as teens. And although we can educate them, we can’t live their lives for them. Making mistakes is unfortunately all part of growing up.Will my kids stuff up? Almost guaranteed. Plenty of adults certainly behave like Muppets on social media – but at least I know that I have educated my kids the best I can, given them some strategies and made sure they feel heard and supported by me should the proverbial hit the fan.I know that many parents are thinking the upcoming “ban” on social media for children under 16 will solve the problem.But I believe that’s just kicking the can down the road, pushing the behaviour underground and off-boarding parenting to the government and tech giants.So, if your pre-teen or teen is raging out of control or being impacted because you haven’t enforced strong enough boundaries and rules around devices, maybe it’s time to stop blaming social media and look in the mirror?Get the day’s breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter.
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