When I was raising my three daughters, it was hard enough to do my job without the influence of social media. That’s why I feel sorry for dads trying to keep one step ahead of their girls today.
YouTube was gaining popularity in 2006 and Facebook went global in 2007. My youngest daughter was 17 at the time, so I didn’t need to be too vigilant about online activity. But, all that is vastly different today.
Fortunately, there is an excellent resource available for fathers to help them better understand the culture in which their daughters are growing up, and to keep abreast of technology kids are using today.
David Gomez is a school resources officer and deputy sheriff in Boise County, Idaho. As such, he is immersed in adolescent culture every day.
He is active on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram where he has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers.
He often posts material about:
- Apps kids use to hide pictures and information
- Methods being used to extort money or sexual favors out of kids.
- The dangers of giving kids cell phones and the best age to do so
He also offers family-friendly advice on safe apps, restricting internet access, developing rules for phone use and addressing other issues that seem to cause lots of consternation for parents today.
But, daaaaad!
Have you ever heard, “But, daaaaaad, everyone is using it?” Officer Gomez sets that record straight with facts to debunk those arguments.
He will also educate adults on the meaning of words being used by children and teens. For example,
- In 2025, he addressed whether “6 7” was harmless or coded language being used by kids to mask drug use and inappropriate behavior.
- In December 2005, he talked about “gooning,” as a word to mask sexual activity. A message in January 2006 focused on the multiple ways kids are already involved in gambling.
Most importantly, Officer Gomez educates parents on tools and tactics predators are using right now to gain access to children. He also shows how teens and children are being trafficked and extorted.
You know if it is actively taking place in Idaho, chances are your daughters are already exposed to the same problems wherever you may be.
Keep your daughters safe by following Officer Gomez today on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you can stay up-to-date on the culture influencing your daughter.
That way, when you hear your daughter mention those things, you are better able to understand what she and her friends are talking about.
Officer Gomez’ advice gives parents a fighting chance in today’s cultural battles.
