In this day and age, protecting our childrens’ safety and wellbeing online is a topic that’s on every parent’s mind. Larissa May, founder and executive director of #HalfTheStory, is at the forefront of the conversations surrounding technology and its effects on mental health. Founded in 2015, #HalfTheStory aims to rebuild the next generation’s relationship with technology and has collaborated with educational institutions, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies across the country to create new standards for the future. Their education program, Social Media U, teaches key digital metacognition skills while empowering young people to understand and advocate for their digital wellbeing. In this interview, we discuss why Larissa founded #HalfTheStory, the importance of education and community, and what we can do to ensure our children develop healthy relationships with technology. 

Don’t miss this episode where we talk about: 

• Larissa’s mental health journey and how her experience sparked the idea for #HalfTheStory
• Common mistakes parents make when creating rules surrounding technology in the home and what Larissa recommends instead
• How #HalfTheStory’s programs shift the conversation surrounding technology from one of fear to one of empowerment
• Creating a safe space for your child to discuss their relationship with technology openly with you
• Mitigating the harmful effects of social media while embracing the positive impact it can have as a tool for connection 

Find Larissa May:

https://www.halfthestoryproject.com/

IG: @livinlikelarz

LinkedIn: Larissa May

Follow Lydia:

www.lydiafenet.com

IG: @lydiafenet

LinkedIn: Lydia Fenet

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Recorded at The Newsstand Studios at Rockefeller Center.

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