The Sexting Generation
Before I begin, this is NOT currently a problem in our home, but it is a problem in their generation.
We are on our second round of teenagers. I am finding this second round a bit more daunting than the first. Let me tell you why.
Cell phones!
Our older two had them. Old flip style phones with texting. I don’t think their first phones even had cameras. To get cell service at home you had to put your phone in the window of the living room. It was the only place a text would come through.
Fast forward five years. Those teenagers are now in their 20’s and we have 13 and 15 year old’s.
Our 13 year old’s first phone was an iPhone. I know. I justified it because he needed a phone and iPod…ok didn’t NEED either…anyway, both teenagers got iPhone’s for Christmas.
Out Little Town also got a cell tower this last summer. So now there is cell service ALL.OVER.THE.HOUSE.
Do I blame myself for even getting them the cell phones? Yes, I should have just gone with iPod’s…IF they have to have music at all.
We didn’t, so now there are some ground rules. Rules I am having to make a conscious effort to enforce because, well honestly, I am a tired mom. It is my job to protect them, and I will. It is just taking a lot more effort this time around.
You may be asking “Mama Kautz, why are you writing about this if it isn’t a problem with your kids?”
Because it’s out there! Christian kids are NOT immune. We, as parents, have our heads in the sand if we think they are. Remember my posts on my son?
It starts with a little “Hey….how’s it going” to “What R U wearing?” to “Send me a pic”…. This could be from either boys or girls….It happened years ago at our homeschool co-op! So, no, Christian kids (or homeschoolers) aren’t immune.
Please. Be involved in your kids lives. Pay attention to who they are texting. Do RANDOM phone checks. Don’t be that parent who thinks “Not my kid.” It could be your son or you daughter.
It is our JOB to protect them.
Make the time to watch this sermon. He shares some of the stats I have above, but also gives more insight, even as a not-yet-parent.
The teenage years are a scary though!! I want my son to stay the sweet little innocent 16 month old that he is now. I wasn’t as worried when I only had a daughter although that is daunting to really. I love your rules they are great.
It is different with girls vs boys that’s for sure! Thanks for stopping by!
Wow. It is so important to be aware of the dangers out there and to prepare our kids to face them bravely and boldly. My kids are young but I have been feeling lately how vitally important it is to start teaching them now how to protect their virtue and make a stand for righteousness. Thank you so much for sharing.
You are welcome….thanks for stopping by!
Thanks Katey. DD does not have a phone yet but I worry about these issues and how flirting, etc is so different from when we were growing up. Technology has its place but can turn ugly so quickly. I look to parents like you who are going through it ahead of me for advice and mentoring.
Oh thanks for the pressure lol Kidding….readers like you are why I write what I do….thank you!