By Catherine Steiner-Adair, EdD with Teresa H. Barker
In the fall of 2015, I had the distinct privilege of attending a talk given by Catherine Steiner-Adair, Ed.D. She is a dynamic, humorous, and informative speaker. The 90-minute talk was done in what seemed like only a few minutes. Her topic was that of her book, The Big Disconnect. Her concerns are the same as the concerns of many parents and educators. They are about the effects of technology on our ability to communicate and to form relationships. Dr. Steiner-Adair does not just point out the dark side of technology but actually gives her readers ideas and suggestions to deal with our new technological lives.
For example, in her book, she sites texting as a huge communication problem because it takes away not only our auditory cues (tone of voice) but also our visual cues (facial expressions, hand gestures, posturing). The two or more people involved in the ‘conversation’ can easily misinterpret the message being sent and find themselves in a text war. Also, people are much more likely to say things that they would not dare say face to face. She suggests that parents never engage with their children (or their spouse) in an emotional conversation by text. When it begins to feel touchy, just say something like, “This sounds important and like something that we should talk about in person. Are you on your way home?”
In her book, she discusses the effects of technology on children at different developmental stages. We are beginning to see how parent screen time is damaging the building of relationships and gives the message that “this gadget is more important than you,” however unintentional it is. Children are feeling abandoned. Look around at any restaurant where families gather. What do you see?
When you read this book you will find out Dr. Steiner-Adair’s seven suggestions for sustainable families in the 21st century. It is a must-read for every parent!
- You can listen to a live interview that I recorded with Catherine Steiner-Adair on the Montessori Family Alliance resource center. If you don’t know how to access it, talk to your Head of School. If you receive Tomorrow’s Child magazine you’re already a member!
Tomorrow’s Child/Nov 2016/ Pg 32
