If you’ve heard your kids talking about Discord and you’re feeling a bit out of the loop, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Discord might sound like some mysterious realm from a sci-fi novel, but it’s actually a nifty communication platform that has taken the online world by storm. My family uses Discord, so I’ve got the 411 for you to learn what Discord is all about and how you can use it to keep up with your Gen Z kids.
What Exactly is Discord?
First things first, what the heck is Discord anyway? Well, think of it as a virtual hangout spot where people can chat, voice call, and even video call with each other. It’s like a combination of Skype, WhatsApp, and a dash of old-school internet chat rooms, all rolled into one.
Originally created as a platform for gamers to communicate while playing, Discord has evolved into a versatile tool used by all sorts of communities, from book clubs to study groups to, you guessed it, families.
Getting Started with Discord
Okay, so now that you have a rough idea of what Discord is, let’s talk about how to get started with it. Don’t worry; it’s not as daunting as it might seem!
Sign Up
The first step is to sign up for a Discord account. You can do this by downloading the Discord app on your smartphone or heading over to their website on your computer. Signing up is quick and easy, just like creating any other online account.
Create or Join a Server
In Discord lingo, a “server” is basically a group or community. Your kids might already be part of several servers related to their interests or hobbies. They can invite you to join a server they’re in, or you can create your own family server. We have a family server with a bunch of channels in it where we share memes and memories, and keep in touch with what’s going on with each other.
Explore the Features
Once you’re in a server, take some time to explore the features Discord offers. You can send text messages, voice chat with others, share files, and even stream your gameplay if you’re into gaming.
Customize Your Experience
Discord allows you to customize your experience to suit your preferences. You can adjust notification settings, change your profile picture, and even tweak the appearance of the app to your liking.
Using Discord to Connect with Your Kids
Now that you’re all set up on Discord, it’s time to put it to good use! Here are some ways you can use Discord to stay connected with your Gen Z kiddos:
Family Hangouts
Schedule regular family hangouts on Discord where you can catch up, play games together, or just shoot the breeze. It’s a great way to bond and stay connected, especially if you have kids who are away at college or living in different cities.
Shared Interests
Find common interests with your kids and join or create servers related to those interests. Whether it’s a server dedicated to a favorite TV show, a hobby like gardening, or a mutual love of cute cat videos, sharing a server can give you something fun to talk about and bond over.
Help with Tech Stuff
Let’s face it, kids these days are practically born with smartphones glued to their hands, while some of us still struggle to figure out how to set the clock on the microwave. If you’re feeling tech-challenged, don’t be afraid to ask your kids for help navigating Discord or any other tech-related issues you might encounter.
Stay Informed
By being active on Discord, you’ll have a better understanding of what your kids are up to online. You’ll be in the loop when it comes to the latest memes, trends, and slang, which can help you communicate more effectively with your kids and keep them safe in the digital world.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it: a crash course on Discord on how to use it to keep up with your Gen Z kids. While it might seem a bit overwhelming at first, I promise it’s not as scary as it seems. With a little bit of patience and a willingness to learn, you’ll be chatting away with your kids on Discord like a pro in no time!