Challenges in the journey of parenting can often double when parents divorce. Raising a child and monitoring their behavior between households can often be difficult.
These challenges only increase in our digital age. As we discussed in a blog post back in 2022, a child’s screen time is a significant issue and concern parents face in the modern day. From playing video games to scrolling on cellphones, the addiction to screens begins earlier and earlier nowadays, causing concerns for parents. It is often easier to manage hurdles in co-parenting when parents can at least find common ground.
Some tips for parents to consider regarding rules
You and your ex-spouse may not see eye-to-eye on everything, especially when it comes to how you parent. However, you should commit to reaching an agreement of your rules regarding technology use and screen time – as well as an agreement to enforce these rules. It may help to:
- Determine how you introduce kids to technology
- Talk with kids about online safety
- Set time limits on games or social media
- Keep an eye on your child’s online behavior and actions
- Check in with each other regularly if there are concerns
In this digital world, addressing technology within your parenting plan is critical. After all, it plays such a large role in your child’s lives, and perhaps even your own. It will be beneficial – and less stressful – if you and your co-parent reach an agreement regarding how you will address your child’s relationship with technology and house rules regarding screen time. It can be challenging to monitor your child’s online behavior across two households, which is why it is even more important for co-parents to be on the same page.
Why is this important?
Of course, all North Carolina parents want to protect their children. Studies confirm that more screen time correlates to high risk of mental health issues. On top of that, divorced parents may be all too aware of how parental separation can impact children as well.
Just as we warn how individuals going through a divorce should be wary about what they post online, so should their children. It is not uncommon for children to turn to social media or online forums for comfort. While not inherently bad, this behavior could spiral into a risky situation, especially if too much information about the divorce or the family is shared on the internet.
Especially during and after a divorce, it will be helpful to monitor your children’s behavior – in real life as well as online. This can help you proactively protect their emotional wellbeing as well as your own peace of mind.