Once upon a time, the enemy of family meals and childhood slumber was the television set. "Just five more minutes," came the cry from the kids, their eyes wide with a rectangular glow. Parents flicked the off button, unplugged the set, or — in extreme circumstances — removed the TV all together.
Now, it's the Internet that drives the kids crazy. It isn't confined to a piece of furniture either. The world wide web is everywhere — even in the palm of their hands.
How has modern parenting changed in response? Are children punished for bad behavior by having their web rights taken away? Are they given incentives like more surfing time for being good?
Here are just some of the ways American parents are keeping the kids in line, online and off (— ironically, these tips were found on the world wide web):
1. Change the Wi-Fi password daily and give it to the kids in exchange for the completion of chores.
2. Unplug the modem during dinner and at bedtime so that your virtually inquisitive youngsters can eat and sleep without secretly surfing. Do they have an Internet enabled mobile device? Take it away.
3. If you can't beat them — join them. Make a list of for your kids on Handipoints.com and award virtual points for real-life chores.
Do you use the Internet to keep the kids in line? How do you monitor their behavior in the virtual realm? Share your experiences, thoughts and tips in the comments.
