Technology has the power to do many things, and changing the world is one of them. We are privileged to be living in a time where science and technology can assist us, make our lives easier and rethink the ways we go about our daily lives. 

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Risks:

• Cyberbullying: This is when people use technology to embarrass, harass or bully someone. Cyberbullying can include posting mean or untrue statements, making fake online profiles intended to embarrass people, sharing embarrassing photos, and more.

• Trolling: This is when people deliberately try to start arguments or to upset people on the internet, often causing considerable distress.

• Isolation: Too much time spent online and using technology is time not spent face-to-face with family and friends, which can create barriers and contribute to a sense of isolation.

• Inappropriate material: Teenagers posting inappropriate pictures or content online, or sharing such material with friends, may humiliate themselves or others.

• Inappropriate relationships: Strangers or others may try to form inappropriate relationships with young people.

All of us, especially young people, need to learn how to exercise moderation in the things we spend time on. Technology for teens is fun and allows them to stay connected to their friends and family, which is important. Some teenagers will do this by spending a lot of time connecting with their friends on social media, or by hanging out with other ‘gamers’ when playing multi-player games online. That’s okay!

But it’s important to have a balance that with physical exercise, learning, and other types of play, and to make sure they leave enough time in their week for face-to-face time with people...we are never too old to go for a screen-free walk with you, or have screen-free dinners around a table!