In the blink of an eye, the entire world has changed around us. No longer do we dwell in the days of plastic toys and giant blocks. Now we must navigate our way through a world where toddlers and tykes want the latest iPhone for Christmas instead of the newest toy in stores.

And that can actually be a beneficial thing, especially in today’s society.

As the world changes on a dime, we too must adapt to the new ways. It happens every generation, and just because this is a brand-new concept does not mean it is one to fear.

A child using smart phones, Facebook profiles and Twitter handles is not a terrible thing. In fact, many applications on these gadgets help further the learning experience.

It all comes down to responsible parenting. It starts with the parents and ends with parents.

Education by the parents matter, especially when it comes to social media. Making sure your child knows what is acceptable behavior online and what is not should be part of the parenting curriculum.

Much like knowing how to say please and thank you, children should learn from their parents things like cyber-bullying and its negative effects.

While children may be seemingly lost in the hustle and bustle of the Internet, swept away by having a profile and speaking to those through virtual reality rather than actual reality, the truth of the matter is that is the way of the world now.

Just like the way of the world has always been using manners, addressing adults by Mr. or Mrs. or Miss and always being respectful, it should not change just because the reality changes.

It is still people on the other end of that keyboard, and if children can learn how to responsibly use this technology as a shield rather than a sword, the world might be a bit better off.

It all boils down to responsibility and good parenting – basic principles.

Without these, then all hope for a better future may be lost because, yes, children will succumb to the temptations of abusing this new technology.

We are not in a terrible or dark time. In fact, this is a new time of enlightenment, one that should be celebrated. Learn from whatever mistakes happened in the past, and figure out how to improve.

You never know how well it could turn out for your child.