Dad created a household ‘tech policy’ and people think every home needs it

As children grow, they gain more freedom and, with it, more responsibilities. Most parents introduce the idea of using the internet and getting pocket money as a first step towards being responsible. A dad named Leong (@growingwithleong) revealed that his kids were coming of age and would soon assume the two responsibilities, so he knew he had to set rules. He shared a brief in a TikTok video about a “Tech” Policy, highlighting do’s and don’ts among other important pointers. It is a crucial guide that all parents can use to discipline their kids. The document, titled “Money and Tech” Rules, had only five rules elaborated along with a concluding note. His video has so far gained over 378k views and around 50,000 likes.

The first rule read, “Do important things first,” which prioritized things that the children needed for their well-being. Leong urged his children to eat healthy, sleep well, do their homework, help with chores, and so on. The next rule was to take one small step at a time instead of getting excited and leaping into the excitement of the phone and finances. For instance, he suggested starting with managing $2 instead of $20, downloading smaller and simpler apps before getting into advanced things. The whole idea is to make good decisions with smaller choices and eventually build up to bigger things that will naturally come. “Like your dance lessons! Do basic things before going to advanced moves,” the father noted.

The third rule was an impressive one — reinforcements. The dad simply stated that his children would be trusted with more money and tech time if they followed the previous rules. He added that they should use the resources given wisely. He also stated that if they failed to maintain the boundaries, throw tantrums, or get sneaky about how they’re using, the amount of tech time and money is automatically deducted. The next rule opened a platform for Leong’s kids to be honest and open about their lives. The dad assured them that they could make mistakes, but they shouldn't hide them.

The fifth rule, which touched the hearts of many, highlighted what the duties of the children should be. The first duty was “to be a kid,” and how many kids forget that with the hustle and trends of today! Leong made it a point to note that he’s got their back and they don’t need to burden themselves with everything. And with everything running online nowadays, kids have become susceptible to a lot of unnecessary information, stressing over the smallest things. According to data from the National Center of Education Statistics, in 2021, over 90% of kids between the ages of 3 and 18 had access to the internet and a computer. It is therefore extremely crucial that parents are aware of what their kids are browsing. The UNICEF recommends measures parents should take, and as Leong noted, two of them were “setting boundaries” for usage and “modeling healthy habits” regarding tech use. 

Coming to money, data from the University of Michigan revealed that kids understand money and certain concepts as early as the age of five. The study, co-authored by Michigan Ross Professor Scott Rick, asked 225 children about spending habits and noticed that kids who are on a budget are likely to save and control their spending despite liking an item. On the other hand, kids who had the money to spend were more than happy to buy. If kids are developing so quickly, it is instrumental to have parental guidance, and that’s where Leong’s comforting rules win.

One bonus rule, which Leong called “The main rule — The Yipee Mode Life Rule,” stood out the most. He clearly mentioned that money, the internet and phones, etc., are merely “tools” to enhance life and will not make them happy. “Being kind, working hard, and spending time with people you love are the things that will truly make you happy,” he said. Leong concluded by emphasizing that if anything seems confusing or scary, he is always there to help his children out. Many parents loved and praised the rules set by him in the comments. @luthien.tinuvievi said, “I will be using these with my son when he comes of age.” @drlaurelcook, researcher and advocate for children, wrote, “You’ve framed the role of tech and money in a brilliantly balanced way.” 

You can follow  Leong (@growingwithleong)on TikTok for more content on parenting and lifestyle. 

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