Discover the importance of 'third spaces' for teens and how these vital non-digital environments, where adolescents can thrive and escape the pressures of home and school. Learn about the challenges and solutions to creating these inclusive, safe, and engaging spaces in a world dominated by screens, with practical tips for educators, parents, and teens.
Read MoreSocial Media promotes rigid personal boundaries and quite some confusion, especially for teens and emerging adults. This one-size-fits-all approach lacks nuance. Real friendships require honest communication, not corporate-like strategies. Social media skews our perception of relationships; we must balance setting boundaries with understanding the complexities of human connections. The blog post offers hands-on advice for teaching teens and emerging adults to navigate friendships.
Read MoreIn a world flooded with digital distractions, educators must reflect on their tech behavior. Students notice when teachers prioritize emails over conversations. A survey revealed 41.7% felt ignored due to tech use, affecting their well-being. To set an example, teachers and leaders must curb excessive emails, promote in-person interactions, and adhere to communication guidelines. Prioritizing meaningful connections over digital noise not only enhances student-teacher relationships but also equips students with healthier tech habits.
Read MoreThis blog post dives into the impact of email on work-life balance, especially for parents. It highlights the blurred boundaries between work and home, emphasizing the need for clear communication and mindful tech use. Allison Ochs, an expert in digital citizenship on digital well-being offers practical tips to manage email distractions, advocating for a healthier approach to technology for better family connections and personal well-being.
Read MoreLet’s look at the safety concerns around Snapchat's "My AI," a chatbot marketed as a "false bestie" for 13-year-olds. Despite initial issues, students still reported concerning behaviors, raising questions about Snapchat's responsibility and the need to protect children online. As educators and parents, we need to be aware.
Read MoreAre you concerned about your child's admiration for Andrew Tate and the manosphere? This blog post is for you, providing practical tips for helping your child break free from the influence of Andrew Tate and the manosphere. There is an additional bonus if you want to connect with other parents. Allison Ochs will put together a parent group. There is a sign-up at the end of the blog post.
Read MoreWhat an insane question! Or is it?
This informative and provocative post will spark you to think about A.I. and education differently. With new technologies emerging, we need to ask ourselves some questions that we would typically find preposterous. I am curious to hear your thoughts.
Read MoreMany weeks have passed since I wrote my first blog post on Andrew Tate. This subject is so important and urgent that I decided to share an Andrew Tate lesson plan and some new strategies that help start classroom discussions.
Read MoreRecently, I watched the latest season of Netflix’s hit show Stranger Things. While I was watching, something struck me. The upside down in Stranger Things reminded me of online spaces: there are alternate dimensions, full of toxic monsters, that mirror our world. We need to understand this space to keep children safe online.
Read MoreYou will find thoughts and concrete ideas on digital citizenship and child protection here. This post should get you thinking about your school or your home and how we adults sometimes know that some of our digital behavior isn't perfect, yet we react like a deer looking into the headlights: we don't change course, slam on the brakes or make any correction until there is damage.
Read MoreIf you are wondering if you should give your child access to Snapchat or just wondering how it works, we are here to help. I know so many parents who are pulling their hair out trying to keep up with their children’s social media. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know in just a few minutes.
Read MoreRoblox is fun but not as safe as you might think. In this blog post, you will find some of the shocking things kids have told me about Roblox and the dangers for children within the game. There is also a handy guide to Roblox for parents.
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