Within five minutes of watching this interview (video of interview is included below), a mother called us to express concern that her son, a teenager, needed help conversing with adults. This is a phone call we receive all too often. Are you ready to join this national movement, a “Truth Campaign” to raise and start a public conversation about how “tech addiction” is effecting our society, our culture? Silicon Valley Insiders are teaming up to fight “tech addiction”.
Another aha moment that we as a society have a “tech addiction”, is when a parent comments that their child (or adult child) never calls and only will send a text when communicating. What is wrong with connecting in person or making a voice call? Are we really that busy?
Truth About Tech Addiction
Fifty percent of teenagers and adults admit they are addicted to their devices. Many of us check our devices every hour. Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat along with other social media platforms are designed to keep us hooked. Keep in mind – Facebook is a 40 billion dollar a year advertising company! Facebook wants us to stay on their platform as long as possible.
Your Children Are Watching You
Let’s get to the point. Parents, your children are watching you. How much time are you spending with your phone? Is it placed on your kitchen or dining room table during breakfast, lunch and dinner? Is it close by, in your lap (not a good idea)? How often are you giving your child the gift of being fully present? Are they observing you being fully present with other adults or spouses?
Tips and Resources to Assist You
This is a short list! Parents, change they way you are parenting with your devices. Clearly outline your expectations at home. When are your children allowed to have their devices? Are they allowed to use their phone or have them on the table during family meals? Is the TV on while your are having a family discussion? Do you have them turn off their phones one or two hours before bed? Discuss as a family how you are going to prevent a “tech addition”.
Join Manners To Go In This National Movement
We at Manners To Go and our licensees around the world are committed to joining this movement. Our licensees are trained and certified to teach children, teens and parents on how to communicate with others. Communication and interpersonal skills are vital to our communities and relationships. Adults need to build and have relationships to be successful well rounded adults. Your children need to observe this.
Additional Resources: Silicon Valley Insiders are Teaming Up to Fight Digital Addiction
James Steyer, the founder of Common Sense Media; and Tristan Harris, a former design ethicist at Google and co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology are leading the campaign.
Watch the interview by clicking on the video below:
About Manners To Go
Thank You for Visiting Manners To Go
Most likely we already share something in common. We believe that teaching children manners, character and social emotional skills are very important.
Manners To Go™ is a full-service company for those choosing to teach manners to children. You can make a difference. All children and teenagers deserve to feel what it is like to be confident, and use good manners out in the world.
Manners To Go™ is taught in public, private and charter schools around the world. The New York Times, Parents Magazine and Fox News have all featured Manners To Go and the many benefits of teaching social skills to children.
Have You Read the Article About Our Day Teaching Manners at Choate?
Yes, they asked for it! The high school students asked for a business etiquette session. Not the teachers or the staff. The students. Read the article by clicking this link.
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
