Is Facebook destroying meaningful conversation?

[riderinthestorm]

32. Are they tweens or teens?

"All three of my children will choose written over verbal communication 99% of the time. When they do verbalize, whatever it is about, it is rushed, brief, inaccurate, poorly conveyed and even resentful at times. I usually have to dig for the pertinent information I am looking for. It is as if they no longer know how, or even care to speak effectively. "

THAT sounds just like a tween or teen (I have a 15 and a 24 year old). If it helps any, they do grow out of it!

That said, there's no texting at the table in my house, by anybody including their tween/teen guests. They MUST sit and have a conversation. Sometimes its incredibly painful but its always a convo and not a text-fest. Since we eat at least one meal together/day, they get a chance to practice. I also won't let them text while they do homework. Oh sure, they sneak it but they know they'll lose their phone/computer for 24 hours if I catch them at it.

Also if we go visit grandma or grandpa (Aunts or Uncles or hospital visit etc), there's no texting while visiting them either or they lose their phone then too. Its rude so it's not allowed.

It does take practice but they do get better....