International day of the family 15 May 2021
COVID-19 and all its pains and challenges caused a new technology bloom! Work, family and friend connections developed on different platforms and levels.This is new and different from anything we ever have known before. Parents need to find their way and guide their families on this exciting, yet scary journey.For SAVF family is important and how families deal with technology in their midst, is crucial. Embrace, empower, connect, balance and protect are key words when families address new technology.
1. Parent empowermentEmpower yourself and others as parents through technology. Good parenting training, webinars and articles are online available. Positive parenting groups on Facebook are excellent to follow. Fill your minds with beautiful, encouraging content by following Facebook pages with that character. Start WhatsApp parent groups where you can ask and answer parenting questions. Ask the experts on Google…or any other place. Use technology to become the greatest parent possible!
2. Put work from home in balanceTo work from home means you have more time for work. Yet, work wisely with your time. Put a beginning and an end to it. Take breaks in which to relax, stretch and focus on something beautiful. Set a definite beginning to family time. You have to set the example in family time as a value and practise self-discipline to cherish that value.
3. Technology related painsThe longer we work on computers, the more physical pains and spasms we experience. Exercise, walking, running, cycling, playing ball as a family are great ways to prevent and get rid of pains. And while having fun, you also prevent dark moods and depression in your family. Add Beauty and ensure physical and emotional health for the whole family.
4. Protect and empower your childTogether with all the benefits of technology, comes exposure to pornography, cyber bullying and other threats. Get information about apps and other ways to protect your child. Empower your child with ways of self-protection. Teach your child self-discipline on the use of technology – through your example and by upholding, cherishing and encouraging important values such as family time and family fun. We all need to rest, relax and talk with each other. Value and protect it by introducing technology free meal times, play times and sleep time.
These guidelines can help us as families to stay close and be strong and resilient.
Erna Rheederfamnet@savf.co.za
