It was wonderful to welcome parents to Hartford’s second Key Parent Function (KPF) on Friday, 3 November, to explore the topic, “The Harms of Social Media and Devices”, presented by Michael Mendieta.

Michael delved into the development of the teen brain and shed light on the engineered technology underpinning social media, devices, and video games. He exposed the deliberate manipulation of dopamine levels within the brain, contributing to the escalating issue of teen addiction. This phenomenon has given rise to surging rates of anxiety and depression among teenagers.

Michael’s presentation shared valuable insights and practical solutions to empower parents in tackling these challenges, particularly when it concerns our younger generation. Some recommendations included no screens in children’s bedrooms, ensuring they have at least 8 hours sleep, and utilising family protection software to block out harmful content.

Useful books referred to in the presentation included:

• “Teen Brain” by David Gillespie
• “Who’s Raising the Kids?” by Susan Linn
• “Social Media, Anxiety and Addiction” by Christopher B. House
• “Decisive Parenting” by Michael Moynihan

In addition, Michael highly recommended all parents listen to the following interview with lawyer and social researcher, David Gillespie, on the ABC.

Software to install at home, to monitor and filter your child’s access to material on the internet, that was recommended, included:

• Circle
• Bark
• Family Keeper

Parents provided great feedback to our KPF event and were inspired to discuss the importance of monitoring their children’s device and internet use.

Hartford College is committed to providing parents relevant and useful information, especially to assist with family life. KPFs are instrumental to building our Hartford community and putting in to practice our philosophy that parents are the most important educators in their sons’ lives.