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Technology and Mental Health

Well Minded Matters

Technology andMental HealthWell Minded Matters

It's Here to Stay

Technology looks very different today then perhaps back when you were growing up (cordless phones, beepers, floppy discs, etc.). Using technology has become second nature and children have their first exposure at a very young age. As we are parenting alongside, and sometimes against, technology it can be difficult to know how to navigate this hot topic in our families. This issue of Well Minded Matters includes some information about technology and children. It also has our list of Developing Healthy Kids Events that will be taking place around the theme of technology.
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Screen Time Recommendation by Age

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a limit of no more than 2 hours of non-school screen time for ages 6-17.
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Be a Positive Screen Role Model

Adults get sucked in too! Limit your screen time when you're away from work. Avoid behaviors you don't want your children to emulate (texting while driving, phone out at dinner, screen-free times).
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Protect Your Child's Privacy and Data

Technology can open a whole new world for our children. Online "Stranger Danger" is real. Teach your child about privacy and how to recognize red flags.
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What is a Vault App?

Vault apps let someone store and manage private pictures, videos, messages, contacts and more. These are stashed in folders often disguised as calculators or puzzles. Vault apps can be used to hide sensitive information such as passwords, but they can also be used hide inappropriate content. Read more about vault apps at the link below.

Website: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/is-your-teen-hiding-something-from-you-content-hiding-apps-every-parent-should-know-about/ar-AA14Ysp2

Kids 8-18 spend an average of 7.5 hours a day on screens (TV, phones, laptops, etc.) for entertainment. In one year this adds up to 114 days!

Upcoming Developing Healthy Kids Events

All events take place at Rockford High School in the auditorium.
Event Information

Childhood 2.0


Childhood 2.0 is required viewing for anyone who wants to better understand the world their children are navigating as they grow up in the digital age. Featuring actual parents and kids as well as industry-leading experts in child safety and development, this documentary dives into the real-life issues facing kids today — including cyberbullying, online predators, suicidal ideation, and more. This film is appropriate for K-12 Parents and high school students.

When?

Tuesday, Jan 10, 2023, 06:30 PM

Where?

Rockford High School Auditorium, Kroes Street Northeast, Rockford, MI, USA

location_on Open maps
Event Information

I am Gen Z

Through expert interviews and the web lens of Generation Z, this documentary explores how the digital revolution is impacting our society, our brains, and our mental health. The themes explored in the film include addiction to smartphones, the rise of perfectionism and burnout, misinformation, and more. Afterwards there will be a brief presentation by BTR showcasing some of our own RHS student's experiences. Due to the mature content of this film, this screening is for high school-age students and adults.

When?

Thursday, Jan 19, 2023, 06:30 PM

Where?

Rockford High School Auditorium, Kroes Street Northeast, Rockford, MI, USA

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Event Information

Screenwise Author Talk

Screenwise helps parents recognize kids need mentoring and that kids deserve more empathy from adults about growing up in the digital age. Devorah Heitner, the author of Screenwise, offers advice on helping kids navigate friendship and identity issues that are common among new texters, gamers, and social media users. These skills can help set kids up for a lifetime of success in a world fueled by technology.


When?

Monday, Feb 6, 2023, 06:30 PM

Where?

Rockford High School Auditorium, Kroes Street Northeast, Rockford, MI, USA

location_on Open maps
Event Information

Human Trafficking Prevention Education

This Human Trafficking Prevention Education Session is led by the HYPTE team from Kent Intermediate School District. This informational session will include what human trafficking really means, what are the risk factors and red flags, and what you can do now for prevention. Online safety will be a common thread. The session will conclude with time for questions and answers.

When?

Monday, Apr 17, 2023, 06:30 PM

Where?

Rockford High School Auditorium, Kroes Street Northeast, Rockford, MI, USA

location_on Open maps