When my eldest child, Alex, began driving, my instinctual response was to install a GPS tracking app on his phone—something any modern, caring parent might consider. After all, many family cellular plans offer tracking features; it seemed like a practical choice for ensuring his safety. I thought that by knowing his whereabouts at all times, I could ease my worries about his travels.
I wasn’t the only one with this mindset; countless apps designed for monitoring teen driving are available, promising peace of mind for anxious parents. From those that alert you if your child unlocks their phone while driving to others that track speed and log trips, these tools are designed to keep kids safe. Some parents even opt for discreet GPS devices attached to their cars if their vehicles lack built-in tracking systems.
Eagerly, I downloaded several of these tracking and driving safety apps, convinced that I could easily manage my son’s newfound independence. Thank you to the app developers for giving this anxious mom the tools to monitor her son’s every move! However, just two weeks later, I decided to remove all of them.
In theory, these innovative technologies seem like a great idea. As parents, we all want our children to be safe on the road, and having tools to help ensure that safety is appealing. However, I found myself becoming overly fixated on monitoring his movements. I spent too many hours watching a blinking icon on my phone, constantly checking to verify Alex was where he claimed to be. In my attempt to protect him, I lost sight of the trust and faith that should exist between a parent and their child. Instead of promoting independence, I felt like I was imposing a sort of digital house arrest on him, all because he was growing up in an age rich with technology.
Realizing the negative impact of my actions, I decided it was time to embrace a more hands-off approach and put my trust back in Alex. It was a difficult decision, especially when so many parents around me were still tracking their kids’ every move. I began to wait patiently for him to return home after practice without any digital updates about his journey. Although it felt unsettling to place my trust in a 17-year-old whose brain was still developing, I knew it was the right decision. I needed to let him experience independence, and this was my first step in doing so.
Fast-forward to today, and Alex has begun college, moving four hours away. While the urge to reactivate the GPS tracker was strong, I resisted. I am among the few parents who don’t know their child’s precise location at all times. I have chosen to let him navigate this new chapter of life without constant surveillance.
This constant connectivity can complicate the transition to college, given that the option to stay in touch is always available. For some parents, having that connection is reassuring, but for me, it was essential to cut the cord. I couldn’t bear the thought of spending the next four years tracking every move on a map, only to panic over a dead phone or poor cellular signal.
Every parent who has sent their child off to college or their first apartment understands the deep instinct to stay connected. However, it’s equally important to allow them the space to grow, learn, and handle life’s challenges independently. I will always support my kids, but from now on, it will be in a more background role, rather than as a constant observer of their every action.
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Summary
This article discusses the author’s decision not to GPS track her teenager, Alex, as he learns to navigate life independently. Initially, she felt the need to monitor his whereabouts for safety, but over time, she recognized the importance of fostering trust and independence. As Alex transitions to college, the author reflects on the balance between staying connected and allowing him the freedom to grow.