I believe technology provides some really fun activities for techie kids and Dads to do together. In my book “Do I Get My Allowance Before or After I’m Grounded?” I talk about all the ways that technology can be positive and how parents can use this to their advantage.
[This is a guest post by Vanessa Van Petten, creator of RadicalParenting.com a parenting website written from the teen perspective to help parents understand them. She is also a long-time friend of GeekDad.]
Here are some of my favorite high-tech activities that are also great bonding opportunities:
1) Geo-Caching
Geo-caching is a really fun way to integrate online and offline activities because you use technology to do a real world scavenger hunt. Go geo-caching in your area or create your own!
2) Start an Online Book Club
Love Eragon? Harry Potter? Twilight anyone? Have them start a discussion forum with other kids or start an online book group together.
3) Develop Your Own Online Game
Programming is a great skill for kids to learn. Decide to build your own simple online game together.
4) Start Your Own Social Network
Young athletes? Chess? You can start their own network on Wetpaint.com and keep it private just to their friends or open it up.
5) Do a Family History
Interview grandparents and family members and record an oral history of the family. Edit it using iMovie and present it to the family or put it on YouTube.
6) Start a Podcast On A Favorite Topic
Do a sports podcast once per month or a funny show that you put on together and put on iTunes.
7) Videotape Local Landmarks or Do a Virtual City Tour
Make a video of your family’s favorite spots and restaurants around your hometown. When guests come into town you can send them the video tour.
I believe technology is a great way to bond and we can think of creative ways to use computers, camera’s, phones and the Internet to connect with our family members. If you liked these tips and are interested in learning more about the non-verbal cues of kids, tweens and teens please check out my book “Do I Get My Allowance Before or After I’m Grounded?”
