A NEW WAY OF DOING EVERYTHING
In an era where digital technology shapes our daily lives, I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought us here. From the early days of coding on a Commodore 64 to navigating the complexities of online safety for our children, the evolution of personal computing has profoundly influenced both my professional path and my approach to parenting in the digital age. This narrative explores the contrast between the simplicity of past technology interactions and the challenges of ensuring a safe online environment for the next generation.
Starting with a Commodore 64, my brother and I embarked on early adventures in coding—or more accurately, transcribing games from code books. We meticulously saved these creations onto cassettes, which, astonishingly, were the same type used in tape deck players for music. Our technological journey didn’t stop there; we soon upgraded to a Panasonic luggable computer, complete with a thermal printer and dual floppy drives—one for the operating system and the other for applications, which, in our case, predominantly meant games. By the age of 11, we had assembled our first PC from spare parts, a feat that seems almost prophetic in hindsight.
Fast forward to today, the influence of those early experiences is unmistakably evident in our professional lives. My brothers and I have carved out careers in the IT industry, with them as developers and myself as a consultant specializing in cloud and security solutions. Even my sister has found her niche within the sector, working as a recruiter for IT positions.
Reflecting on these memories, I’m filled with gratitude towards my parents for fostering an environment that balanced the joys of outdoor play with the intrigue of technological exploration. This balanced upbringing not only shaped us into the adaptable, tech-savvy, and endlessly curious adults we are today but also imbued us with a sense of security and love that has been our foundation through life. Thanks, Dad, for guiding us on this incredible journey and imparting lifelong lessons along the way. And thanks, Mom, for enveloping us in such unwavering love that we never once doubted its presence.
Years later, beyond the initial excitement of the Commodore’s tape deck rewinding your games, I recall the struggles of securing a stable internet connection, the era of Telkom R7 weekends, and the screech of a dial-up modem on its first connection. There were the days of Absa Free internet (provided on a CD), IRC chat rooms, and home LAN parties that lasted the whole weekend with games like “Duke Nukem”, “Warcraft”, and “Command and Conquer”. It was simpler then, knowing everyone in the “online game”, likely because you had invited them to your LAN party in the first place.
Reflecting on those days, brings a sense of fond nostalgia, and I wish I could offer my kids similar experiences. However, times have changed. The world has evolved, making it feel unsafe to let my children play in the streets alone. LAN parties have been replaced by online gaming, transforming face-to-face communication to interactions through Discord, Teams, or Skype. The friend who once sat across the table, threatening to annihilate your entire Warcraft base, has been substituted by a faceless, nameless “friend” (or rather, stranger) at the other end of a Discord chat. This shift has introduced an illusion of anonymity, turning innocent banter into online trolling, bullying, rage quits, and in extreme cases, threats of violence. I’m reminded of a line from one of my favorite books (or movies) by Ernest Cline, “Ready Player One,” where H tells Wade, “…she could be a 400-pound dude living in his momma’s basement, for all you know…” This encapsulates the risks and uncertainties of trusting online personas, a central theme of the story.
The digital age has indeed brought unparalleled access to information, connectivity, and opportunities for learning and entertainment. However, it has also introduced a new set of risks that our generation of parents must navigate. Cyberbullying, online predators, and exposure to inappropriate content are no longer just lurking in the internet’s shadows; they’re often just a click or two away, posing real threats to the well-being and safety of our children.
As a parent and an IT professional, my perspective on online safety is not only shaped by nostalgia for a simpler time but also by a deep understanding of the technological landscape and its pitfalls. Longing for the past isn’t enough; we must take proactive steps to secure our children’s digital future. This involves educating ourselves and our children about the wonders and dangers of the online world, implementing practical safety measures, and fostering open lines of communication about their online experiences. Encouraging safe use habits, polite interaction, a thirst for knowledge, and being responsible online citizens are paramount.
Setting clear boundaries and rules for internet use, including which sites can be visited, what apps can be used, and limiting screen time, is crucial. Equally important is teaching children about the significance of online privacy, emphasizing the need to avoid sharing personal information and to remain skeptical of strangers they encounter on the internet.
Technology itself provides tools to aid in this endeavor. Parental control software, privacy settings on social media platforms, and monitoring apps can offer layers of protection. However, these tools cannot replace the need for parental involvement and guidance. Regular discussions about online experiences and challenges are essential for safely navigating the digital world.
There’s a collective responsibility to advocate for safer online environments for children. Supporting organizations that combat cyberbullying and online exploitation, and pushing for policies and regulations that protect young internet users, are critical in this ongoing battle.
In conclusion, as we marvel at the advancements of the digital age, we must remain vigilant in safeguarding our children from its hidden dangers. By blending nostalgia with awareness and combining traditional parenting with modern tools, we can hope to provide our children with a safe and enriching online experience. Just as we learned to navigate the digital world, let’s teach them not only to survive but to thrive within it, ensuring they harness the internet’s vast potential while avoiding its perils.
