I was the same way. My kids were exposed to and learned how to use the internet long before many even knew there was such a thing. And like you, I was the kid who did everything my parents told me I couldn't ... so when it came to my kids, I gave them a lot more freedom to explore. It worked great and both grew up to be outstanding adults (possibly through no fault of my own - LOL), so I agree, we need to raise our kids to grow up ... take responsibility, and discover the world around them. I think many parents today though see the internet and social media just as a place they can send their kids to get them out of their hair, without ever paying attention to what it is they're actually up to.
without ever paying attention
In my opinion that is the most common parenting failure today.
Children need attention. If they don't get it at home, they will find it elsewhere. Add a social media replacement and things don't go so well.
I don't like the idea of two income families. I understand that it's necessary, but I think that aggravates the problem.
My parents never hovered over me, but there was always one available. I tried to do the same. It's a luxury that many can't afford anymore.
Again, I agree. Having grown up in an era where the mom generally stayed home, or had a part time job for extra income, the way this whole thing has gone down is a huge part of the problem. Of course, as soon as a larger number of women left the home to seek their own achievements in the greater world, the greater world adjusted by doubling the costs of everything so that it soon was no longer a choice, but a necessity for two working parents. To me it's one of those 'be careful what you ask for' moments.
You've really hit the nail on the head with children needing attention from their parents.
If children are getting real attention from their parents at home. Real attention too, engaged parents who are involved in their lives. They are far less likely to fall victim to the dangers of the internet.
I agree with your conclusions, but I prefer other methods of dealing with it.
I don't think I can child-proof the world, or shelter children from it. I believe they should be taught how to stand up to it on their own.
I understand the parents desire to protect their children and keep them away from negative things, but they will suffer later in life for it.
I know that when I was a child I could, and did get past any censorship I came up against. I was able to get porn as a child before the internet. So I never tried to limit the internet, I instead taught her about what was out there, and how to deal with it, myself first. Then let her explore as she wished.
I was the type of child that made a point of doing everything that I was ever told not to. So when I became the rule-maker, I tried to avoid creating taboos.
Your mileage may vary, though.