We live in a social world
If there is any time this has been more apparent to us, it is the present.
As we continue to socially distance, many people find themselves getting creative in how they connect with one another whether that is through video chats online, walks together outside at a safe distance, or the old school classics of phone calls and letter writing.
For parents of middle school children, it can be hard often to find a balance between connecting with your child and giving them the independence to discover who they are and spend time with friends. When friendships seem to take place primarily over the screen, questions of how much screen time is too much and how much time you are comfortable with your pre-teen spending in their room alone linger unanswered.
So…how do we learn to reconnect in a virtual world?
Here are some tips to help you and your middle school child reconnect in a virtual world:
1. Recognize that you do not have to sacrifice your values for a completely virtual life.
Don’t be afraid to set limits on screen time. Just because a child has the ability to turn on the TV, does not mean that they should watch every channel. When screen time is necessary, plan it out so that both you and your child know the expectations and purpose of the screen time and set parental locks on sites you are not comfortable with you child visiting.
2. Be creative with social visits
Talk to the parents of your child’s friends to coordinate creative ways to connect that both families are comfortable with. Make time to go for a hike, walk, or bike ride while maintaining social distancing. If you choose to allow social time for video games or social media, have open conversations with your children about their interactions with peers online and be willing to support them in navigating difficult conversations and boundaries with peers when they arise.
3. Plan in family time
When close proximity to others is limited, family closeness can provide a much needed physical closeness. Schedule time to connect as a family even if it is in small doses like a hug in the morning when you wake up, talking over meals, or doing a fun activity at night.
Lastly, middle school kids need other middle school kids who can relate to their feelings during this time of transition. Consider a virtual group or camp that will allow your kid to connect with others who know what they are going through.
