The ProTech Playbook - June Edition

IN THE NEWS
Today’s Top Tech 📲

WARNING: Proceed with Caution ✋ | The US Surgeon General has asked Congress to pass a measure that would add a warning label (like cigarettes) on social media platforms (HHS). Why? Experts don’t have sufficient evidence that social media is “safe.” We see this as a helpful move to encourage parents to think twice before granting minors access.

The States vs. Meta 👩‍⚖️ | In 12+ lawsuits filed by 45 states and D.C., Meta is accused of tailoring their platforms to minors while avoiding vital measures to enhance child safety. The lawsuits claim children “can be sexually solicited, harassed, bullied, body-shamed and algorithmically induced into compulsive online use” on Meta’s platforms (NYT).

Kids Online Safety Act 🏛️ | Many parents have tragically lost their children due to social media incidents such as cyberbullying and sextortion. They are now advocating on Capitol Hill for the Kid’s Online Safety Act, which aims to establish a "duty of care" for tech platforms (NYT). If you want to take action, here’s how you can help.

AI or Not 🤷‍♀️ | It’s getting harder to distinguish what’s real and what’s fake online. Don’t believe us? Try this. If you’re looking for insights on navigating the AI conversation with your family, this video may help.

“DON’T TELL MY PARENTS”
What do teens really think about social media? 🤔

This isn't your parents' view of social media… Part two of our conversation series with teens features three amazing young women who share their insights on everything from screen time to why they use Snapchat.

We think you’ll be intrigued by their thoughtful perspectives. In this video, they discuss:

• How they use social media to connect,

• The pressure to be perfect online and how it can affect self-esteem, AND

• Why open communication with parents is key to navigating the online world safely.

Watch it here and get the conversation started with your family!

PROTECH CURRICULUM
Teen’s Feeling Down on Social Media? They’re Not Alone. 😔

A 2023 study from McGill University found that adolescents “who reduced their social media use by 50% for just a few weeks saw significant improvement in how they felt about both their weight and their overall appearance” (APA).

Social media can be a beneficial connection tool, but it can also negatively impact your teen’s self-image and self-esteem. This week's video dives into the world of filters and how unrealistic beauty standards affect mental health, especially for teens.

Learn:

• How social media can distort reality,

• The link between social media use and anxiety/depression, AND

• Tips for digital detoxing and feeling better.

This is one example of the many videos that accompany our ISTE-aligned curriculum. Whether you have a few minutes to show a video, or more time for a complete lesson and engaging activity, we have resources designed to help you.

For more information, check our our video introduction and our scope and sequence overview. All 6-12 lessons are available now, and our K-5 lessons will be available very soon!

WE’RE COVERING
New on Parent ProTech 🆕

Check out a few of our newest videos on parentprotech.com! Our team is sharing new videos and resources in English and Spanish every week.

For the Home + Parents:

• Summer is here, and so is increased screen time. How can I help my child?

For the Classroom + Students:

• Unfiltered - Overcoming Social Media Comparison

• Research Report Card - Don't Get Duped Online