Image by fionnaigh via Flickr
Boundaries are meant to be challenged. This is the philosophy of the modern parent, the certainty gained from endless experts and their opinions (offered with loud frequency). Children are meant to shove at limitations. They’re meant to push at the rules until they discover any weaknesses. Independence is the intention — and many mothers now find themselves offering freedom in all elements of life, allowing their family to explore the days without restrictions.
You, however, are not so sure of this.
And you would be correct.
It can’t be denied that children must be offered the chance to define themselves. It can also not be denied, however, that such definitions require care. Youths are impulsive. They will do what they please without acknowledging the potential dangers, the obvious consequences. Behavior adults deem reckless will instead be considered easy. It’s imperative therefore that all parents — including you — recognize the need for protective measures: such as technological tracking.
Too often is this a source of controversy. Mothers think that it represents a lack of trust, are certain it will only spark discontent among their families. The truth, however, is that tracking devices (found in smartphones, computers and more) offer security. They enable parents to note all movements, to register any problems. This is vital. In an age where statistics favor tragedy children must be protected — and this is the way to do that.
It must be understood that youths will battle this idea. They’ll assume it to be an invasion of privacy. What parents must stress, however, is that privacy is a privilege but safety is a requirement.
