4 Warning Signs That Your Kids Are More Tech Savvy Than You

When it comes to high tech, kids have the time, skills and inclination to outsmart you. While you may have been the tech go-to person for your parents, you’re likely starting to feel like the family luddite as you watch your children deftly navigate the digital world. In fact, U.K. communications regulator, Ofcom, found that six-year olds have the same understanding of technology as 45-year olds. But look on the bright side. Keeping up will keep you plugged in and up to speed with whatever comes down the digital highway.

Here are four warning signs your kids are out swiping you, and how to deal:

She's Hacked Your Credit Card

Like any sane parent, you’ve handed over your iPad to your young child to grab a moment’s peace. But when your credit card is declined while online shopping the next day, you think there must be some mistake. There is. And you made it. Because not only did you give your kid the tablet, she’s somehow learned your iTunes password—and you’re now the proud owner of $300 in robot games. Hot Tip: Kids never forget the one thing that adults can't remember: passwords. Change them regularly until your kids are ready for fiscal responsibility.
 

His Rebellion Has Gone Digital

What happens when you tell your digital darling he's too young to colour his hair? He takes matters into his own hands, literally. With help from YouTube, he makes hair dye out of Kool-Aid and food colouring. As you glower at his flaming red hair (and fingers), it hits you: Kids can learn ANYTHING online. Hot Tip: Ask kids to introduce you to their favourite YouTubers and get to know their content so you can talk about it. Don't worry if you don't get it—it wasn't made for you.
 

She Creates Digital Circles Around You

While you might still be struggling to crop your LinkedIn headshot, your child can shoot, edit, and post a short film. With today's incredible movie making apps, is it any wonder that kids are mini Steven Spielbergs? Just don't be surprised if you're the unwitting star of their next feature. Hot Tip: Embrace and exploit these new talents. Need a presentation for work? Need a video for Aunt Thelma's 80th birthday? You know who to enlist for help.
 

You Need His Help to Set Up Better Parental Controls

You, being a responsible parent, have installed parental controls on your family's devices. But then you come home and find him blasting NSFW tunes that would make Snoop Dogg blush. As they get older and savvier, kids learn ways to bypass controls and filters. Hot Tip: Monitor home internet use and talk early and often about staying safe online. Once the controls are no longer working, it's time for solid communication and trust to take over.