When it comes to raising a digital kid — without ever having been one! — you’ll hear all sorts of different advice about what works best. And it’s true — there isn’t just one way to create a digital tattoo. There are many ways to do it well!

I have to confess, though, I get a little riled up when I see Facebook commenters completely dismissing teaching younger kids — tweens — safe and smart digital skills as a strategy to raising older kids — teens — whoalready have these skills in place.

You see, there are a LOT of myths circulating online about kids and phones in particular. Many of these myths are being spread by parents who have never even tried the strategy they’re so quick to judge.

So frustrating, my friend, and here’s a little hint: Never take advice from someone who hasn’t done the “thing” they’re talking about themselves.

I want you to know that I see you.

Holding your babe, looking into their beautiful eyes. Noting their cheeks. Letting their pudgy fingers hold — tightly — onto yours.

I see you.

You cringe.

Just for a split-second.

Not because you're judging.

And not because your own notifications aren't dinging away in your back pocket.

They definitely are.

But because this is the world we live in now.

This is the world that your baby lives in now.

A world where people are waaayyyy more likely to be looking into their phone screens than each other's — or their children's — eyes.

This what I know to be true about that, and about you.

Right inside this letter that I wrote for you.

This is a BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front) post designed to show you, dear parent of a newly minted tween #passthecoffee, exactly what IS and is NOT private on Instagram.

Consider this your Instagram privacy settings cheat sheet.

You're welcome. :)

Ready to roll up your sleeves and dig in?