Zero & One

Use the tools, but don't be used by them.

Connect to other adults. Remember you’re not alone.

One & Two

Take pictures. Just make sure you don’t miss a real moment to capture a digital one.

Limit their screen time.

Purchase the protection plan. It’s hard to get Play-Doh® out of the headset jack.

Three & Four

Have some screen-free zones and screen-free times at home.

Play online games together, and occasionally use technology for learning.

Talk about technology as you use it, or they might assume, “Mom’s just playing a game.”

K & First

Establish Internet boundaries. Say things like: “Never Google alone.”

Use technology to share things you enjoy. Share things like old-school music videos.

Second & Third

Make technology social. Play together and keep the computer in a public place.

Establish rules for online sharing. Say things like: “Don’t post your home address.”

Ask three questions about online games: What is the content? What is the commitment? What is the connection?

Fourth & Fifth

Stay curious. Ask things like: “Have you seen anything online that surprised you?”

Follow recommended age limits. Know guidelines for apps, networks, and games.

Talk about four online dangers: Porn, violence, bullying, contact with strangers

Let them be the technology expert.

Sixth

Have clear limits and expectations for mobile devices.

Share an iTunes account, and research their apps.

Leverage technology for your relationship. They may say more in a text than in person.

Script a response for when you find out something you weren’t expecting.

Seventh & Eighth

Start social media accounts together. If you choose to allow social media, start together with one platform and a joint account.

Follow them (online) respectfully. Say things like: “Am I commenting on your posts too often?”

Know their passwords. Keep the digital doors unlocked.

Reinforce basics. Say things like: “Mobile device content is public and can be permanent.”

Ninth

Rediscover what platforms and apps they are using—weekly.

Discuss digital content as part of a college application or resume. Say things like: “So, about that picture you posted . . .”

Tenth

Encourage them to plug into online hobbies. Suggest things like starting a blog or YouTube channel.

Consider sharing the bill.

Have clear limits and expectations for technology and driving.

Eleventh

Familiarize yourself with online education options.

Never let a high schooler have a dating app.

Share an online calendar.

Leverage technology to connect to a bigger cause.

Twelfth

Dialogue about the future. Say things like: “By the way, colleges and careers monitor what you do online.”