I so look forward to this Tuesday Jan. 31st 2017 to meet the students of the Hebrew Academy Day School from the Reformed Temple of Rockland County, Nyack N.Y.
Our subject matter, an interactive workshop on
YOUR HORMONES, TEENS AND SOCIAL MEDIA.
In anticipation I have a few thoughts besides what I’ll cover on the PowerPoint, roleplaying and guided relaxation. Do kids have unspoken guidelines to posting? How much is too much? Where do they draw the line?
Honestly who doesn’t like, “likes” or “follows” on instagram and responses to snapchats? Many adults get “hooked in” on Facebook and Instagram. It’s alI about having a Brand and Visibility. I have observed that in myself. So can you imagine how concretely being “liked” could drive your tween and teen? Some postings are cool and innocent while other posts are darn right hurtful mean spirited and spells outright bullying.
For females finding out about a party you’re not invited to via instagram or falling in on the party via snap is so wounding. “I thought they were my friends? Why wasn’t I invited?”
Sexting and posting lewd pictures thinking they’ll disappear? Funny how you can even take a quick screenshot of a snap.
Though the Pew Study claims kids are online constantly 24% of the time, believe me that’s a low report. Kids are very private and downright sneaky around their parents. Mom and Dad you may have their Instagram account but there is Finsta, a fake account that they post all sorts of stuff not meant for your eyes.
So kids can monitor each other and do so some degree if that’s how their group works. My thrust is always about instilling self and other kindness and empathy for one another. Are my words Kind, Useful and True. Instilling the capacity to reflect, to play a scenario out via role playing absolutely helps teens and adults see the bigger picture.
