[Hidden-tech] very important info on tech and kids

[A - Z International]

Hi all,

Six Hidden-Techies met at Esselon Cafe at lunch today for a very 
important and provocative discussion on technology and kids, which 
was aided by Ed Watson of Westfield who does tech support and 
development. Ed has offered to help any of us put parent blocking 
technology on our systems, if needed.

Two key topics areas came out of the discussion of what our 
collective kids -- ages 6 to 14 -- do on the Internet and what we 
ALLOW them to do, versus what is there in the "wild west" of the Net 
that we can't even control.

One was the technology of blocking and controlling access, the ways 
kids access the net (from Ipods to other devices). The other was the 
sociological issues that arise and our questions of how intrusive to 
be. Luckily, we had a grad student from UMass sitting at the table 
and he's offered to come out to other sessions.

None of us have a clue where any of this will go. We just know we 
want to keep on meeting, talking and sharing information. If anyone 
wants to connect to Ed, just email me directly at 
az at a-zinternational.com. I'll post a new meeting time and date once 
we sort that out so any newcomers can join in.

Please note that this is an ad hoc group of Hidden-Techies doing "our 
thing," not a Hidden-Tech sanctioned anything. There is an upcoming 
strategy session in February and anyone interested can propose 
getting board backing for these meetings. Your choice. I'm just a 
parent in need here.

Thanks to all who attended!

Amy Zuckerman
Hidden-Tech Founder