10/07/2024
In our parent presentations, when we say things like, “No social media until at least age 16,” or “wait on smartphones until IN high school,” it’s because we understand the brain.
Po*******hy exposure is exponentially more impactful during adolescence than it is during adulthood because of the brain (sexual experiences during adolescence carve deep ruts that don’t disappear easily, if ever at all).
The temptation of sending a disappearing n**e in Snapchat is often more difficult to resist during adolescence because of the brain (the absence of a fully functioning prefrontal cortex prevents accurate judgments of risk and impact).
The addictive, slot machine-like feed in TikTok is often more difficult to put down during adolescence because of the brain (a highly sensitive dopamine reward system makes the prospect of another highly customized, entertaining video too much to resist).
The impact of seeing a steady stream of perfectly polished photos in Instagram often has an impact on self-worth during adolescence because of the brain (high social sensitivity means teens deeply desire affirmation and an answer to the question, “Am I pretty or good enough?”).
Not every kid who uses social media in middle school becomes addicted to p**n, sends a n**e on Snapchat, struggles with TikTok, or has decreased self-worth.
But I believe that just about every kid is a better version of themselves without them. Because we understand the brain.
✅ Keep junior high completely free of smartphones.
✅ No social media until at least age 16.
✅ Parents – find your like-minded tribe. Band together! Orgs like (after 8th),
✅ Principals – bell2bell, no personal electronics. Visit: phonefreeschools.com
✅ All digital devices are filtered, monitored, and owned by the parents.
Be encouraged! You’re not alone.
Chat by chat.
Step by step.
We’ll show you how!
Parenting with you,
Chris
