As a mature adult who became a teenager a little more than 10 years ago, I have an inkling on how computer technology has segregated parents from their children. Though I did not get the Internet until I was in College, I too, fell into the trap that is AOL Instant Messenger, email, chat boards, etc. I would get so caught up in chatting and playing computer games that my parents hardly saw me even when I was home.

The one good thing that came from it is that my dad and I bonded over this new fascination, and he too began playing computer games. Unfortunately, my mom is computer illiterate so she is left standing behind the monitor instead of in front of it. It is partially her fault though, because she is too stubborn to sit in front of the computer and try to learn how it works. I don't know how many times my father and I have shown her how to turn the darn thing on and she still doesn't know how! I bought her books on how to navigate the computer, and do you think she has cracked them open even once?

I think that a lot of modern parents are not like my mother, but those who are will find out that in order to re-connect with their children, they should learn how to use the computer and its functions. Even those parents who are familiar with a computer should take a step further and find out just what their teenagers are doing on there.

Earlier I mentioned an Instant Messenger program. If your teenager frequents the computer, chances are they are using at least one of these programs, whether it is AIM, Yahoo, MSN, etc. If you want to communicate to your children and avoid getting the monotonous "Yes" "No" answers from them, this is the way to go. Show your kids how you have caught up to the age of technology, ask for their screen name, and drop them an IM. This is also a good tool for catching up with your own friends these days. If that's not your thing, try sending them an email. It has the same advantages but without the instant response. These devices are especially valuable to keep in contact with a child who is away at college.

In order to understand the dangers of the Internet for teenagers, parents must understand the Internet. It is too dangerous to be ignorant of it. If need be, at home you can even check your teenagers history of the pages they frequent, or lock certain websites so that they cannot see them. If you suspect that your child might be into something risky, you can monitor their activity from a distance. You cannot protect your children from dangerous sites if you don't know how!

In conclusion, to stay connected with your teenagers, dive into their world of computer technology. Not only does it serve to protect them, but you can also re-connect with them. Don't let such a useful tool become dangerous to your teenagers or your bond with them.

Learn more about this author, Kelly A. Mello.
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