While technology can be a foe, it can also be a great family friend. I'd like to highlight a few of today's technological marvels that I believe are essential for the home. They have made it much easier for parents to safeguard their sons and daughters. Here are some that you should consider:
The DVR. Only 31 percent of American homes currently have this TV-recording device. I think parents should consider purchasing the capability. Most importantly, the DVR can be used to record only positive programming that meets a healthy family standard. In addition, the DVR allows families to watch programs at their convenience instead of when they are scheduled. Speaking personally, I like being able to zip through an entire four-hour football game in less than half that time. What a time-saver! And who couldn't use a few more hours in their day?.
ClearPlay machine. This device, available at many Christian bookstores and from http://www.focusonthefamily.com, allows families to rent or buy movies and some television series with offensive content edited out. Editing updates for the latest movie releases are provided online at http://www.clearplay.com.
Internet filters. The Internet can help your daughter study for her final exams. But using it also exposes her to inappropriate sites. So a growing number of families are using Internet-filtering products. These software systems search the Web and restrict access to sites with violent or pornographic content. Several products also notify parents when attempts have been made to access such sites or when unsuitable e-mails have been attempted. (Check out the Parenting tab at http://www.focusonthefamily.com for more information.)
Book: Bringing Up Girls
By Dr. James Dobson
Article by Bob Waliszewski