Students and Technology (Social Media)

Last week the district brought in speakers to share about students and social media.  You really don't think about elementary students and social media - however after participating in the session last week and watching the CNN special last night, elementary parents need to be aware of social media and their children.

Technology is great - there are so many things that technology improves in our lives, but with that - have we become an addictive society?  Last night on CNN, several of the 13 year old students claimed to check their phones/social media 100 times a day.  One young lady said that in the middle of class she would check to see what was being said about her on social media.

The "normal" things of growing up - taunting, gossiping, spreading rumors - are all still with us...they are just now broadcast through the internet to thousands.  And ...the new piece with technology - they can't be thrown away and could resurface at any time.

This is not to scare you.  As the speakers shared a book "Should I smash my child's phone?"  It's not about removing all devices from your children, it's about opening a dialogue with your child -  talking about what is appropriate in your household, and how to use technology effectively.  Having an open conversation in elementary school can help when your child goes off to middle school - you have set your family's guidelines.  Are you setting a good example to your children with your own technology usage?

The CNN special last night was a great companion piece to the district presentation.  We're all in this together.

Some photos just to make you think....

Are you living and enjoying life...or being a spectator through your phone?