Technology

My kids had full internet use with only porn and advertising blocking, except for "homework time", as well as no restrictions on video games (except for fucking Roblox). They recently graduated high-school at the top of their class and continue doing great in university.

They grew up to be nice, well-rounded young men who make friends easily, aren't assholes, aren't glued to their cell phones (which they had since they were little), don't mindlessly watch TV, can easily switch tasks and "buckle down" when they have to, and have a great work ethic. They grew up with the attitude that internet/cell phones are tools, not rewards or distractions. Once they hit high-school I found I no longer needed to monitor them (and it was starting to feel creepy and invasive). When they had to study they studied, on their own without prompting or timers.

I had no worries because I know how to read papers, and there was (and still is) ABSOLUTELY ZERO evidence that doing so would be harming, but in fact the reverse is true.

Kids grow up to be like their parents. Don't want them to be assholes? Then don't be an asshole. Want them to grow up with a reading habit? Then read for yourself. It's that easy.

It's interesting to see that their friends who had strict internet/gaming rules ended up turning into complete shitheads they no longer associate with.