Unplugged

The NY Times had an interesting article on parenting while plugged in that introduced the trouble with parents who spend more time on social media or smart phones and less time speaking to their kids.  When I started reading it, I thought how horrible that these parents aren't paying enough attention to their kids.  Then I thought about it and realized I may sometimes be that parent.

Granted my son is not a toddler any longer.  But when he was only 3 weeks old, I recall sitting in front of my computer on the floor while I rocked him with my foot.  I was checking work email (couldn't bear to be away from the office grind in those days).  My husband came into the room asking me what the hell I was thinking?  I had no idea what he was talking about until he revealed that I was so engrossed in my work that I was rocking the baby at a pace that could have launched him into the ceiling.

I don't think it's new for parents to be distracted with work efforts while trying to multitask as parents.  I just think technology has made it so much easier to do.  If you have kids you know that toddlers will stop a perfectly content play session to get your attention as soon as you are on the phone. But now you can take that phone to the playground or for a walk.

Recently my teenager slammed ipod and ripped the connected from the car outlet because as he was telling me about a new song that he wanted me to hear, I answered my OnStar to take a call.  I realized how it made him feel pretty quickly and immediately told the caller I would get back to them.  His face showed a bit of surprise but he smiled and even thanked me.  Maybe I am not a lost cause.

Yesterday, he and I decided to bike to the marina for lunch.  He purposefully left his phone at home and I put mine on vibrate on the bottom of my backpack.  We did not speak continually throughout that ride or lunch but we were both "present" and engaged with each other.  It was a terrific afternoon.

I think age and experience is telling me that it is ok to miss a call.  Most items will wait and emergencies are usually not the norm.  I am now putting "Unplug" on my to do list.