parenting in the digital age

If we're honest, we don't know how to manage the ever-changing influence of technology in our own lives, much less the lives of our family members. Privacy, what? Influencers, who? Harmful content…seriously? If you’re ready to take back your family from the grips of technology, godly wisdom is the name of the game.

If we're honest, we don't know how to manage the ever-changing influence of technology in our own lives, much less the lives of our family members. Privacy, what? Influencers, who? Harmful content…seriously? If you’re ready to take back your family from the grips of technology, godly wisdom is the name of the game.

As teenagers, the challenges of adolescence are daunting, especially in a digital world. I'm Tanya Kirkpatrick, and I'm joined by my dear friend Katey McPherson in our podcast. We explore the complexities of raising teenagers in a world dominated by social media and instantaneous connections. Together, we address the significant challenges our youth face, highlighting social awareness, providing a safe haven, and reevaluating the role of grades in defining success.

In our conversation, we dive into the profound impact of the digital world on our youth. We also discuss concerns about mental health, the repercussions of adverse childhood experiences, and the coping mechanisms available. Our discussion takes a somber turn as we address the heartbreaking issue of suicide, its gender differences, and a recent tragic loss in our community. We share insights into recognizing warning signs, the importance of addressing emotional pain, and fostering essential coping skills.

Transitioning to recent events in Queen Creek, AZ, our podcast delves into the heart of a grieving community. We approach this topic with utmost sensitivity and empathy. We recount the heart-wrenching assault that led to the untimely passing of 16-year-old Preston Lord at a Halloween party. Our intention is not just to inform but to empathize with the pain and grief enveloping this tight-knit community.

Join us as we explore the details of these devastating events and Mayor Julia Wheatley's heartfelt condemnation of the senseless act. We share her prayers for change within the community, acknowledging the profound impact on residents' lives.

We also discuss the ongoing investigation by Queen Creek police, recognizing the challenges they face in identifying persons of interest and tirelessly seeking justice. Chief Randy Brice's unwavering dedication to prioritizing Lord's case underscores the community's resilience.

Witness the solidarity that emerged at the Queen Creek Town Council meeting, where orange-clad council members and residents honored Preston Lord's memory. The voices of concerned parents advocating for solutions and a zero-tolerance policy highlight the community's empathy and determination.

While our podcast covers diverse topics, we provide updates on these events, shedding light on the broader context of violence in neighboring areas. Mayor Wheatley's reflection on the need for change to start within our homes underscores our empathetic approach.

As the Queen Creek Police Department, with FBI assistance, continues its investigation into Lord's death, we remain committed to providing empathetic updates. We invite you to tune in, stay informed, and join us in seeking answers and justice for the grieving families enduring unimaginable pain.

Finally, we turn our focus to parenting teenagers in the digital age, exploring potential dangers and offering tools to monitor online activities. Our core belief is that the physical and mental health of our teens is paramount. Join us on this journey to create a world where teenagers feel heard, understood, and loved.

Connect with Katey here: https://www.kateymcpherson.com/

The Queen Creek Police Department is getting help on the high-profile case from the FBI, which set up a portal at: www.fbi.gov/prestonlord where video, photos and other media can be
submitted

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In this episode, Susan talks about why setting screen-time limits can be so difficult, and why there’s so much push back from our kids when it’s time to unplug, sharing strategies for implementing healthy rules and routines. https://susanstiffelman.com/screen-time-limits-podcast/

In this preview from the Tech-Wise Parenting Summit, Jack and Trudy remind listeners that being present and aware can help us engage with technology in healthy ways, rather than feeling drained and depleted, or turning to screens to hide from uncomfortable feelings. In the full summit interview, Trudy also walks us through a 7 minute Appreciation Body Scan, providing a calming, restful experience that all will enjoy!

In this preview clip from the Tech-Wise Parenting Summit, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson talks about the impression a child is left with when we react with anger to their angere over screen time limits, and how it influences their future willingness to come to us when they're upset.

Susan shares a preview clip from a conversation with author and filmmaker Tiffany Shlain from the Tech-Wise Parenting Summit, discussing the benefits of a 24 hour weekly ritual of unplugging from technology.

In this preview clip from the Tech-Wise Parenting Summit, Dr. Anna Lembke (author of Dopamine Nation) suggesting that rather than turning to screens and social media to lessen feelings of depression, online activities may actually generate depression in some instances when long-term tech use fuels reduced natural dopamine production in the brain.

Susan shares a preview clip from an interview with Dr. Dan Siegel from the Tech-Wise Parenting Summit. Dan and Susan engage in a short role play to demonstrate how conversations lacking in the many aspects of communication missing in online exchanges can lead to disconnection and misunderstanding.