By now you’ve realized that, perhaps without wanting to, you have become a digital parent. This can be fun, exciting and often quite challenging. Children seem to whiz through their gadgets effortlessly and, just when you think you have figured it all out, a new application is released and your child has brand new jargon.

The best way to equip yourself for this rapidly changing landscape is to make sure that you are not left behind. We’ve put together a couple of tips that will guide you towards making the essential first steps in being a successful digital parent. 

Get involved: It is important to know what your children are doing. If you haven’t already, try out some of the technologies that your child enjoys. Even if it takes a couple of tries, it will be worth the effort it takes to be one step closer to your child’s digital habitat.

Talk to your child: Chat about their favourite online activities and learn more about the channels they mention. Don’t be disheartened if they use words you’ve never heard. They’ll mention social networks and sites like Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or SnapChat. There are plenty of online resources to help parents understand more about these activities so be brave and go and explore them!

Show you care: Show your child that you understand how important technology is to them. This will make sure you retain open communication about it.

Vodafone has made Digital Parenting easier by putting together all their resources in an easily accessible website and Facebook page. Visit www.ibrowsesafely.com.mt for practical information and advice about how to take informed decisions and protect the delicate balance of online safety and mobile freedom.

The ibrowsesafely campaign is brought to you by Vodafone Malta in support of BeSmartOnline.