Navigating Digital Dangers

Taking Christina's class, Parenting in a Digital World, was exactly what I needed when my oldest was a sophomore in high school. I had great concerns about my child being on social media, but was constantly met with the idea that I was being too strict (by my child) or that I was making it more of a bigger deal than necessary (by other adults). I was conflicted.

I met Christina in a Bible study right before she was starting her class and she invited me to attend. It was exactly what I needed! Not only did I receive valuable information that I didn't know, I met other parents who shared the same concerns that I had. We learned about apps that weren't appropriate for teens that I never knew existed along with the pros and cons of different social media platforms. Christina helped us navigate through the benefits of technology, but also led discussions on why boundaries are certainly needed. After the class was over, I felt more confident in my parenting with regards to my child and the use of technology. Shelley

Parenting in a Digital World opened our eyes to some of the dangers and challenges our kids are facing with technology, social and digital media. It was a great resource of information that helped us be more equipped to come along side our children to train them and teach them how to navigate the obstacles they are and will face. We feel more equipped in making decisions in regards to technology and are more aware of the many pitfalls we may face. Having this knowledge has changed how we approach technology and ultimately protect our children. It's a course you can re-take and a book you can re-read as your children grow because it's a network of like-minded people to remind us we are not doing it alone.

Christina has put together an invaluable body of information that is a must for every parent, grandparent, teacher, and youth worker! I brought my girls to Christina's class, and it gave us a wealth of understanding, guidance, wisdom, and practical resources with which to safely navigate our use of technology. We now know how to use digital engagement to promote wellbeing and growth instead of letting technology use us.

Christina and her co-leader came alongside me and my girls to offer guidance and support. After attending just a few classes, my girls came to me stating how much the material had positively impacted them. They expressed that they were much more receptive to working together with me on developing strategies to keep them safe online.

In a non-judgmental way, she and her co-leader invited us to sort our what works best for our family! I will also be using this material in my private, professional practice as I help families navigate the challenges of technology.

Thank you for your class and encourage others to share your material with middle school children. We are including our 7th grade child in your class. Although our child does not have access to social media, we have struggled with technology and boundaries for years. After attending your first 2 sessions, our child agreed to turn in her phone for a “break”. Your class helped her understand the impact that technology is having on her and her classmates. Subsequently, she has been more receptive to a technology contract and to healthy boundaries. Her attitude has definitely changed.

As parents, we recommend your class to other parents and middle school students.

Because of your small group (Spring 2020), we decided to not allow our girls (now 12 and 15) any social media whatsoever. We also have to approve any app that gets installed and monitor their devices. Our rules have been more conservative than many of their friends, but I have zero regrets! My younger daughter still asks often. One thing we did was partner with another set of parents. We both agreed no social media. When my kid says everyone has it, we can correct them! There is strength in numbers!! lol.

Thanks for all on the information years ago!