This episode features two guests: Dr. Shirley Vickery (former Richland 2 Lead for Learning Support Services) and Abby Cobb (Richland 2's Lead Social Worker... amongst other things!) Both guests offer their expert insight into the effects of social media on teens and their mental health-- both positively and negatively.

In this episode, we switch gears a bit and talk about our real little ones, specifically supporting language development with preschool-age kids. We have a special guest, Michelle Jordan, who works with this age group in our school district. She shares an overview of the current data regarding preschoolers Post-COVID and why oral language is so critical for our kids. Listen in and learn some strategies and routines you can build at home to support pre-literacy skills.

Check out the website for some activities and resources you can use to support good speech, language, and communication skills at home.

Speech & Language Activities

We continue our summer series with some stop-motion action. Get ready for a wild ride into the world of stop-motion videos, where ordinary objects come to life and imagination knows no limits. It's like playing director with your favorite toys, creating a mini-movie masterpiece right at your fingertips.

Check out Educational App Store for the apps discussed in this podcast.

Lego Movie Maker

Stop Motion Studio

I Can Animate

Check out Common Sense Media Parent Guides to:

Lego Super Hero Movie Maker

Stop Motion Studio

During the school year, students have access to classroom and school libraries; but what about during the summer? In this episode, Nikki and Amanda discuss two popular and widely available apps to help kids stay connected with books to increase reading and decrease the "summer slide."

Check out Scholastic's "On Our Minds" blog post about summer reading

For our listeners in the Richland County area, see what the Richland County Public Library has to offer this summer, including the Summer Learning Challenge!

In our last episode, we shared Amanda's experience with Geocaching and we went in depth about this fun, outdoor treasure hunt. This episode continues the conversation with a special guest, Tasia, who embarked on her very first geocaching experience with us. Listen in to hear another perspective as she shares insights on our recent adventure.

Our 2nd episode in our summer series is about Geocaching. Geocaching offers a unique way to explore the outdoors, discover hidden places, and engage in a worldwide treasure hunt. It appeals to people of all ages and abilities, from families seeking outdoor adventures to seasoned adventurers looking for a new challenge. The activity promotes physical activity, problem-solving, and navigation skills while fostering a sense of community among geocachers. Listen to this episode as we discuss what it is and enjoy listening to Amanda's first experience with Geocaching.

New to Geocaching? Here is a link for more information and to download the app on your phone.

https://www.geocaching.com/play

In this episode, Nikki and Amanda explore the influence of social media challenges on kids and teenagers. They will discuss the emotional, psychological, and physical risks associated with viral challenges. Nikki and Amanda try to offer practical advice for navigating these challenges responsibly. Tune in for a crucial conversation on raising awareness and supporting the well-being of today's digitally connected youth.

Social Media is becoming more and more popular among our teenagers. We are also more aware of the mental impacts of Social Media on teens. This episode shares some guidelines and basic rules to help you teach your child how to use social media responsibly and safely. This episode is appropriate if your teen is already using Social Media or is getting started.

Resources discussed in this episode:

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/what-are-some-basic-social-media-rules-for-middle-schoolers

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/what-are-some-basic-social-media-rules-for-high-schoolers 

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/how-to-help-teens-manage-the-effects-of-social-media-on-their-mental-health 

https://www.apaservices.org/advocacy/news/testimony-prinstein-protecting-children-online.pdf

Think back to 2001 and those old flip phones you used to use (and may still be in your attic somewhere!) Is it time to dig them out and dust them off? According to some TikTok and YouTube influencers... YES! The hashtag #bringbackflipphones has over 38 million views on TikTok, and Gen Z-ers are seeing possibilities in this retro tech. Tune in as Amanda and Nikki talk about why flip phone sales are on the rise, and the potential benefits to #bringingbackflipphones!

Sources:

Dumb Phones are on the rise in the U.S. ...

Gen Z is flipping out for flip phones...

Gen Z has a new 'vintage' technology to obsess over

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Tim Swick, The Computer Immersion Magnet Lead at Sandlapper Elementary School. He shares how his teachers and students have used the popular game, Minecraft, in school. Using Minecraft Education in the classroom has engaged students in learning and building future-ready skills, such as creativity, problem-solving, and systems thinking. It is pretty interesting to hear just how much our children are learning through "play."

See below for more information about the school or contact Dr. Swick.

Sandlapper Elementary School

Minecraft for Education Professional Development