Teens Talk: The good and bad of smart phones and social media.159

What do you think of this episode? Do you have any topics you'd like me to cover?

FREE GUIDE: HOW TO THINK THROUGH DEVICE USE FOR YOUR TEENS

https://open.substack.com/pub/teenagersuntangled/p/teens-and-screens-the-big-hug-teenagers

Smartphones can be massively problematic in the hands of the young, mainly because of what kids can access through them. Social media can have a magnetic pull for adolescents who're trying to figure out their identity and fit in, meanwhile predators are well aware of the various access points provided.

So are there any positives? Is it even justifiable to give our kids a smartphone, and at what age is it suitable? 

My teens have very kindly agreed to chat openly about their experiences, both the good and bad, to give us parents a chance to think through our own approach. We now know so much more now about the issues phones and social media raise, and I hope this conversation helps you by reducing guilt and encouraging you to engage with the issue by thinking clearly about your own values and the individual children you have. 

NOTE: My daughter has been diagnosed with ADHD, which is why she has strong opinions on the subject. 

In this episode we explore the pros and cons of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, with one of my daughters explaining why Snapchat is particularly stressful due to streaks and friendships.  https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/snapchat-a-fantastic-way-to-connect-or-a-cynical-exploitation-of-your-teenagers-time/

What comes through clearly is the importance of parental involvement, setting boundaries, and understanding the impact of social media on mental health and friendships. 

We give you the good and bad: 

From predator problems, self-image issues, political echo chambers, misinformation, AI and a lengthy digital footprint, sleep issues, and stress... 

To opportunities for minorities to find support and perspectives that differ from those in their school, ways to find role models, language to describe their experiences, creative outlets and ideas about

OtoZen — a new driving safety app
Are you worried about your teenager getting distracted behind the wheel? 

The OtoZen app helps in real time — not just after something’s gone wrong. It has voice alerts, drive scores, and even safe driving challenges you can set together, it’s the kind of tech that actually helps your teen build better habits. 

OtoZen — a new driving safety app
OtoZen helps build better habits in real time with voice alerts, drive scores, and safey challenges.

Support the show

This episode is sponsored by OtoZen: The brilliant new driving safety app

https://www.otozen.com

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I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping.

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You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk