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Chrissy Teigen, though a social media enthusiast herself, remains cautious about allowing her children to join the digital world anytime soon. Speaking at Aura's inaugural Digital Parenthood Summit on June 4, Teigen engaged in a conversation with DreamWorks founder Jeffrey Katzenberg regarding the challenges of raising children amidst the omnipresence of social media.
As a mother of four—Luna, 8, Miles, 6, Esi, 16 months, and Wren, 11 months—with her husband John Legend, Teigen outlined strict rules for iPad usage, limiting it to "maybe an hour on the weekends." Her apprehension stems from the barrage of inappropriate ads her children encounter while watching YouTube videos, prompting her to question, "Who am I going to call [to complain]?" She advocates for regulations on such ads, emphasizing the need for a safer digital environment for children.
Teigen expresses her reluctance to allow her kids onto social media until after high school, citing concerns about their safety and well-being in the digital realm. She underscores the importance of protecting their innocence and ensuring their happiness and growth as children. Recognizing the pervasive influence of social media, Teigen highlights the unrealistic images and expectations it fosters, particularly for impressionable young minds who may struggle to discern reality from fiction.
Despite her reservations about her children's digital engagement, Teigen remains transparent about her own family life on social media, finding solace and understanding within the online community. She acknowledges the platform as a space where she can authentically share her experiences as a mother, fostering connections with others who can relate to her joys and struggles.
In navigating the complexities of digital parenthood, Teigen exemplifies the balance between embracing the benefits of social media while prioritizing the well-being of her children in an increasingly interconnected world.