We all know how the algorithm works—the more you look at your phone, the more it will send compelling content to keep your eyes from looking away. It’s hard to break habits of checking TikTok or Instagram and constantly refreshing to see more, but it’s important to take time away for our mental and physical health. Read more ›
If you’re spending an excessive amount of time on social media and feelings of sadness, dissatisfaction, frustration, or loneliness are impacting your life, it may be time to re-examine your online habits and find a healthier balance. Read more ›
You are growing up in a world where social media has always been a part of connecting with others, especially friends and classmates. Social media has made it possible to stay connected to other people from almost anywhere and at any time.
However, digital platforms can also make things more difficult for you emotionally. Read more ›
Technology has changed the way we interact with each other. Social media puts other people just keystrokes away. This helps some feel like they have more social support. But for others, it can increase isolation and depression. Read more ›
Last year, one-fifth of all high school students seriously considered suicide and 1 in 11 teens attempted suicide. These numbers are staggering and unacceptable. To truly make a dent in the teen mental health crisis, there needs to be an acknowledgement that technology should be an important part of the solution. Read more ›
Karla Garcia said her son’s social media addiction started in fourth grade, when he got his own computer for virtual learning and logged on to YouTube. Now, two years later, the video-sharing site has replaced both schoolwork and the activities he used to love — like composing music or serenading his friends on the piano, she said. Read more ›
As Snapchat and Instagram draw criticism for safety and mental health concerns, some young people are opting for a different way to keep in touch. Photo “widgets” LiveIn and Locket are grabbing attention for their fuss-free photo sharing — just snap a photo and it pops up in a tiny window on your friend’s home screen. Read more ›
Many of us have become so reliant on technology, it’s hard to unplug and put our devices away. Our perceived need to be ‘always on’ can take a toll on our physical and mental wellbeing—increasing anxiety, interfering with sleep, and affecting our social relationships.
The following books offer counsel on how to step back from technology and find the right balance to ultimately make you feel more in control. Read more ›
Since 2003, Common Sense has been a leading source of entertainment and technology recommendations for families and schools. Read more ›
Hear what child development experts have to say about what parents, teachers and other caregivers can do to help prepare and protect kids from all the scary news out there, whether it’s fighting overseas, a school shooting, devastating wildfire or a global pandemic. Read more ›
