As a concerned parent of children who sometimes use cyberschool for our homeschooling with all the bells and whistles, I have enjoyed deeply learning from an instrumental internet safety book, The Digital Invasion: How Technology is Shaping You and Your Relationships by Dr. Archibald Hart and his daughter Dr. Sylvia Hart Frejd.
I have quoted this cyber safety book countless times since it was published in 2013 in presentations and when connecting with other concerned parents. There are many of us!
SIDE NOTE: I do recommend a separate resource below if the issues you are facing are more serious and already out of control!
Have you ever had a kid who has lost interest in everyday life?
Seems to be struggling more emotionally? Depressed?
Has lost interest in recreational activities and prefers gaming instead?
Does not want to relate to their family as much anymore?
Has a hard time falling asleep at night?
Complain they are bored more often than before?
The Digital Invasion book explains details to help caregivers not only support their family’s internet usage, but also understand what is happening inside their brains and hearts when they do. The Digital Invasion clarifies the impact of screens on learning. motivation and attention. I first learned about it through an Association of Christian Counselors continuing education class. Dr. Archibald Hart was teaching counselors, pastors, educators, parents and grandparents the science behind internet usage. I was so fascinated I pre-purchased several copies before it published!
The Digital Invasion: How Technology is Shaping You and Your Relationships: Audio Interview Link
Since I just spoke to another mom about this book a few days ago… I wanted to add a little plug here with a link to click for an audio when the Harts interviewed with Focus on the Family.
I found The Digital Invasion more useful to our family than many of the other internet safety books available.
This book will not leave you feeling condemned but equipped to hopefully navigate toward a balance for improved family relationships.
For those who like quizzes, The Digital Invasion website contains a “Digital Wellness Quiz” or if your child’s gaming usage is serious the “Internet Addiction” test (IAT) by Dr. Kimberly Young…and offers other resources.
Resource for More Serious Internet Safety Addictions that may be Already Out of Control:
I recommend Dr. Kimberly Young’s website for serious internet safety issues that may require treatment services, detox or extra support for “Internet Gaming Disorder”, “Se*xting and Po*rn”, “Internet Infidelity” and deeper concerns that may have impacted your family.
