Parenting in the Digital Age

Paris is without a doubt one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, and every year families relocate and settle down in the City of Light. Those families may adore visiting the Louvre, Parc de la Villette and other child-friendly destinations, but inevitably one day, those families will be confronted with the need to access digital destinations.



I know, as incredible as it may seem, even children in museum-rich Paris want to play with tablets, smartphones, and computers. Bienvenue to the Digital Age!

But not to worry, Paris has many organizations and associations to help digital parents who have yet to master French or cyberspace. To get you started in the right direction, here are some useful pointers to start you and your kids on a rewarding digital experience in Paris.

Quick tips for Parisian digital parents

- Yes, your children will pick up the language of Molière faster than you can translate ‘lickety-split’ to French. And that will now include French Internet slang. Before arriving in France, your teen may have written a text message ending with LMAO but now you will see MDR (mort de rire). And it doesn’t stop there, so keep a running dialogue with your children.
- Age of consent in France is 15. That is not a typo. 15. See Article 227-25 of the French Penal Code for more jaw-dropping legal facts. So if you see your 16-year-old darling daughter texting or instant messaging that 25-year-old guy down the street, get the “safe tech – safe sex” conversation started because this is a new town with new rules.
- In France, Internet Service Providers provide free parental controls and even explain how you can install parental controls on tablets and smartphones. Read up on your provider website or stop by your local boutique.
- Talk to your school’s parents association about holding a digital parenting evening, or just set up a coffee session to talk with other parents. You will be reassured to know that you are not alone.
- Set up a digital parenting training session or workshop with e-enfance for your school or parent association.



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Source: inspirelle.com