Momology 101

Privacy or Protection?

Can we protect our children and still give them the privacy they want? Notice I did not say need. Oh, sure we all prefer to have some privacy, but is it needed? Is it a right?

It astounds me when a parent has to be told to be aware of what their child is doing, who they are friends with, and where they go. That there is any doubt as to whether or not it's right to go into a child's room and "snoop".

My boys are all too young to have their own computers or cell phones. But when they do have those things, hubby and I will know exactly what web pages they've gone to, what text messages they're getting, and by golly who they're chatting with on both devices. If they have a problem with this, they can hand over the computer and cell phone.

Do I sound strict? I guess I am in some ways. My goal is to keep an open line of communication so there isn't an issue to begin with. I'm not naive, I know there will be some secrets. But I hope that when it comes to the big stuff, they'll come to me because they know they can.

It's my job as a mom to protect my children. From strangers and from themselves until they are old enough to protect themselves. I won't be doing my job if I don't check up on them. Isn't it our role to guide our children? To teach them what is right and wrong?

I ask you, how can we teach and protect if we are ignorant as to what our children are doing?