Honey, We Lost the Kids: Re-thinking Childhood in the Multimedia Age

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for preteens. Her most recent books
are Jo’s Triumph, Raven’s Revenge, and Tarragon Island.

An exploration of what it means to be a child in today’s high-tech
world, Honey, We Lost the Kids begins with a discussion of the idea that
the definition of childhood itself has changed. The prevalence of
television, pop music, the Internet, and advertising aimed directly at
kids means that an incredible amount of information is readily available
to even very young children. Shifting attitudes about what is and is not
appropriate material for children mean that content has also changed
dramatically in recent years: children are no longer protected behind
the “walled garden” of childhood, where certain subjects are not
discussed until the kids are “old enough to understand.”

Using a clear, accessible writing style, McDonnell looks at various
types of media and the ways children from tots to teens are manipulated
by, understand, and interpret the myriad messages to which they are
exposed. The text includes a provocative mix of statistics; quotes from
a wide range of sources, including books, articles, studies, and
anecdotes (the author is a keen observer of her own children and their
peers); and her own opinions. Bibliographic information is included for
those interested in further exploring the topics the author introduces.

Some of the many questions posed: How do computers affect literacy?
Should parents censor or restrict children’s access to the media? Can
children understand the difference between blatant advertising ploys and
suspect claims and verifiable facts, useful information, and quality
entertainment? Is the globalization of culture good or bad for children?
Are teenagers activists who understand how to manipulate the media or
self-centred hoodlums? While the book does not provide clear-cut answers
to the complex questions raised, Honey, We Lost the Kids offers an
intriguing, relevant, and insightful reflection on parenting in an age
when brand-aware, media-smart, computer-savvy children represent
society’s future.