The narrative surrounding social media often paints it as a destructive force in children’s lives. Numerous studies flood our feeds, warning that our tech-savvy kids may end up as disengaged, apathetic individuals if we don’t pry their devices from their hands. Claims abound that social media breeds depression, erodes communication skills, and, most alarmingly, stifles creativity by robbing kids of their boredom.
A popular excerpt from Glennon Doyle’s book, “Untamed,” summarizes this concern: she worries that by giving children phones, we are depriving them of the boredom necessary for creativity to flourish. She writes, “As a result, we are raising a generation of writers who will never start writing, artists who will never start doodling, chefs who will never make a mess of the kitchen…” While Doyle’s sentiments resonate with many, her perspective appears overly pessimistic and lacks nuance.
As parents, it’s crucial to scrutinize the basis of our worries. Are we voicing genuine concerns supported by evidence, or are we merely echoing the age-old fears about the youth of today? Throughout history, every new technology—from books to television—has faced scrutiny for its potential to harm society. Socrates himself criticized writing, arguing it would diminish memory.
While it’s true that social media and the internet have their downsides, dismissing their potential for creativity is short-sighted. For instance, my children have harnessed platforms like YouTube to enhance their artistic skills. My son, at 14, self-taught piano and coding, even mastering Debussy’s “Clair de Lune.” My 11-year-old daughter has explored drawing, painting, and cartoon creation, all thanks to the resources available online.
In fact, many other parents share similar experiences. For example, Mia from Oregon shared how her son learned to sing through YouTube, gaining confidence along the way. Ethan from Florida taught himself coding and even won a national contest. These stories highlight the positive influence of social media on creativity.
As a music teacher, I utilize YouTube to enrich my students’ learning experience. The abundance of tutorials available today has significantly improved the abilities of young musicians compared to previous generations. Platforms like TikTok showcase endless creativity, with Gen Z engaging in everything from dancing to cooking, constantly pushing their creative boundaries.
Instead of assuming we comprehend our children’s social media experiences, we should actively engage with them and understand what they are learning. It’s essential to avoid the pitfall of previous generations, who dismissed technological advancements as harmful. Ultimately, social media and the internet are tools that can be used for good or ill, depending on how we approach them.
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Summary:
Social media is often criticized for harming children’s creativity by stealing their boredom. However, many young people are using these platforms to enhance their artistic skills and learn new things. It’s important for parents to engage with their children’s digital experiences rather than relying on outdated fears.
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