Guest Speaker Sparks Critical Conversations About the Impact of Social Media
Guest Speaker Sparks Critical Conversations About the Impact of Social Media
The Rumson Country Day School recently welcomed Max Stossel, founder of Social Awakening and Youth & Education Advisor for the Center for Humane Technology (an organization featured in the acclaimed documentary The Social Dilemma), for a compelling series of presentations on the impact of modern technology. Stossel’s extensive background as a media strategist brought valuable expertise to this important topic which resonated with students and adults alike.
Throughout the day, Stossel addressed RCDS students and faculty, highlighting the ways technology is intentionally designed to be addictive and distracting. By revealing these strategies, Stossel encouraged students to reflect on their technology use and engage in peer discussions on managing screen time effectively. He provided practical tools to help promote healthier digital habits and simple tricks like turning off the “autoplay” setting in YouTube or downloading apps like “One Sec,” to make distracting apps less appealing.
In the evening, parents from the community were welcomed to a presentation tailored specifically for adults which explored how children are using social media today and how it is shaping the way they think. The eye-opening session was a catalyst to critical conversations about content exposure, online interactions, and the impact that digital platforms have on our children’s mental health. Stossel armed parents with strategies to start meaningful discussions with their children and introduced resources like parental controls and apps for monitoring technology use. The event wrapped up with an open Q&A session.
“Max’s presentation bolsters our current focus on digital citizenship and media literacy,” said Heather Parker, RCDS’s Director of Curriculum. “Technology is an amazing tool when used with intention. Our goal is to equip students with the essential skills necessary to make positive choices online and cultivate healthy relationships with technology that will lead to success in high school and beyond.”
Stossel’s message complements the existing RCDS curriculum which incorporates lessons from Common Sense Media and The Social Institute. These lessons are integrated into the students’ advisory activities, iLib and technology classes which span grades K-8. This comprehensive approach ensures that RCDS graduates are prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of today’s increasingly digital world.
RCDS’s guest speaker series will continue throughout the year to support the school’s ongoing commitment to providing valuable insights into the latest parenting topics, child development research, and more. On Monday, February 24th RCDS will welcome Dr. Aliza Pressman, New York Times bestselling author of The 5 Principles of Parenting and host of the podcast series Raising Good Humans.
For more information on RCDS’s guest speaker series click here.