You like the title of this article? In this day and age, the terms Internet and Family wouldn't really go together for most people. But that's what I'm all about, re-framing. Anyway, so what I mean by that is how we use the internet at my house together as a family. I've used it with the kids since they were babies, even if it was for songs, or relaxing nature sounds, or bob ross, or a vintage donald duck cartoon (our fave), I utilized many internet resources that assisted me in my style of parenting. And as the kids grew, we continued spending time using the internet together - as if we went to the library. As I see it, the internet is like going to the library and looking for interesting stories, articles, and information; but in this instance, the library comes to you. I wanted my kids to know how to navigate the internet for proper information as well as interesting information. I feel that it's also teaching them that by utilizing the internet, they can always find an answer. It would also be more of beneficial if you used it in productive means.

 

For the most part, I really try to keep our internet family time entertaining and always look for good informational pieces (the kids loved this game). I have the our main Computer connected to our 55" LG so we just are just comfy on the couch surfin along. *Cue Beach Boys Song*  Now that my kids are older I let them take turns at choosing a subject. And lemme tell you they introduced me to some pretty "original" stuff... well, Dr Squish seems pretty original...It also keeps me in tuned on another aspect on what each kid is into. I claim to be their best friend, not because we party and just have a good time, it's because I know them closer than anyone - I've watched them grow their entire life. 

​

So I often preach how useful the internet is, but kids need to be guided through it just like anything else. So, if you are going to use the internet, use it with them as bonding time to discover things together. Above all else, do not disregard the valuable role that the internet can play in your parenting.