Keeping the M2 Generation in Balance

Have you heard of the M2 generation?  This is what experts call today’s highly technological children whose lives seem to revolve around media.  It is not unusual to see children engaging with technology whether at home or in a public place. As a matter of fact, children frequently use multiple forms of media simultaneously.    

A nationwide survey conducted by the Kaiser Foundation shows children ages 8-18 are using media (i.e., iPods, television, computers, cameras, cell phones, video games, music) nearly 7 ½ hours per day.  This indicates that children are spending more time with media than with family, in school and perhaps sleeping.  Although media use can be beneficial to everyday living and learning, there are cautions to consider such as: media multitasking during homework, interruptions to physical activity, safety, video game or television viewing choices and more.  As a parent or professional working with children, understanding the issues is important.  A few links are offered to help encourage further investigation and understanding. 

Generation M2: Media in the Lives of 8- to 18-Year-Olds

Kaiser Family Foundation Study 2010

http://www.kff.org/entmedia/upload/8010.pdf

SocialEdCon: What the Heck Do We Do with Social Media?

Edutopia: What Works in Education, The George Lucas Educational Foundation

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/getting-started-social-media-betty-ray

Media Safety

National PTA: Every Child. One Voice.

http://www.pta.org/topic_TV_and_video_game_safety.asp

FREE! Local events addressing 

current topics in digital awareness:

The Digital Age--Is My Child Ready?  
Wednesday, October 3 
7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
360 Youth Services
1935 Brookdale Road, Suite 119, Naperville

Creating a Generation of Responsible Digital Citizens 

Tuesday, October 9
7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Naperville Central High School Auditorium
440 W. Aurora Ave. Naperville

Your Digital Footprint Matters--What's a Parent to Do?  
Monday, October 29
7 p.m.
Naperville Public Library 95th Street location, Room AB
3015 Cedar Glade Rd, Naperville