Innholdsfortegnelse for Winter 2024 i MASK The Magazine

MASK’s online social emotional curriculum (MASK E3 Institute) is available for students, parents, teachers and can be done at school or in the comfort of the home. MASK’s E3 Institute uses a multimodal approach to teach kindergarten through high school students effective life skills to help them cope with peer pressure, bullying and technology-related challenges. Students will be equipped to self regulate and adapt to stress and will feel empowered to make decisions from a place of knowledge and confidence. This digital curriculum is: ✓ Tier 1 Prevention Programming ✓ Aligned with curriculum standards/Every Student Succeeds Act ✓ Turn-key digital format ✓ Easy to integrate into weekly schedule ✓ Quick Writes activities MASK’s E3 Institute is here to help teachers, parents and caregivers create safe, intentional environments where children can…

From iconic history to modern-day thrills, San Antonio has something for everyone. REMEMBER THE ALAMO! When it comes to San Antonio, the Alamo is the star of the show—and for good reason. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the first mission established in the area back in 1718. However, its fame skyrocketed in 1836, when 200 brave Texan defenders, including William B. Travis, James Bowie and David Crockett, stood their ground against 2,500 Mexican troops in a 13-day standoff. Their sacrifice became a rallying cry for Texas independence and to this day, “Remember the Alamo” is a phrase that’s embedded in American history. Today, visiting the Alamo is a must for families. It’s free to explore, but timed reservations are required to ensure that everyone can experience this important piece…

Technology is woven into nearly every aspect of our daily lives, especially for our children, many of whom receive a laptop in kindergarten. From educational apps to social media and gaming, screens have become an ever-present influence. Understanding how technology impacts your child’s brain and well-being is crucial as a parent. Research continues to uncover both the benefits and risks of technology on young minds, making it more important than ever to help children find a healthy balance. Screen Time and the Brain: The Good, The Bad and The Unknown Technology can be both an educational tool and a source of potential harm. Educational apps and digital tools support skills like literacy and problem-solving, especially for younger kids. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children…

Keeping up with the ever-evolving online risks is a growing challenge for parents as children spend more time on the internet for school, entertainment and socializing. “It can be tough to monitor kids’ online activities—who they’re talking to, what they’re seeing and how they’re interacting,” explains Dr. Shefali Gandhi, a licensed psychologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Gandhi suggests tools like social media family monitoring and content filters to help safeguard kids. Staying informed about digital threats through resources like NetSmartz by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children or the Federal Trade Commission’s On Guard Online can also be valuable in protecting children online. DIGITAL DILEMMA in Pre-K CHILD READING LIST ★ “Limit Your Dragon’s Screen Time” by Steve Herman ★ “Unplugged Ninja” by Mary Nhin ★ “Goodnight…

Parents often struggle to find a balance between their screen time and precious moments with their children. The constant ping of notifications can pull us away from what truly matters. But just as we teach our children to be more mindful, we also must learn when it’s time to power down and give kids our full, undivided attention. Here are 5 tips to help you unplug and reconnect: 1 Begin by setting clear boundaries for digital use in your home. Designate tech-free times during the day—during meals and an hour before bedtime — for every member of the family, including yourself. 2 Create a dedicated space in your home where devices aren’t allowed, like the dining room, bedrooms or your child’s play area. This will not only limit distractions but…

When I got my first smartphone at 14, I felt like I had just unlocked a whole new world. I could instantly connect with friends, scroll through endless content, and explore websites I probably shouldn’t have had access to at that age. But what started as a thrilling sense of independence quickly spiraled into something darker. Before I knew it, I was caught in a cycle of addiction, spending hours scrolling through social media feeds, mindlessly jumping from one app to another, and engaging in group chats that often turned toxic. By the time I reached college, I knew I had to make a change. So, I decided to quit social media cold turkey and “dumb down” my smartphone. What I discovered in the process has reshaped how I view…

MASK (Mothers Awareness on School-age Kids) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization created in 2007 by a group of dedicated mothers who recognized the need to consistently educate families on rapidly changing issues. The MASK mission is to engage and educate parents, children and the community about the issues facing youth and to empower children to make safe, healthy choices. MASK helps children learn invaluable life skills for how to cope with a number of issues including responding to peer pressure, dealing with trauma and technology-related challenges. In today’s viral and social media world, coping skills are more necessary than ever. MASK equips students to feel confident regulating their emotions, maintaining frustration tolerance and setting healthy boundaries. MASK has served the community for over a decade, with the goal of strengthening…

Creating a safe haven for your children is crucial in assuring them they’ll be protected from uncomfortable or threatening situations. If your children’s safety is important to you, sign MASK’s Parent “Safe Home” Pledge. With this pledge, you’ll be making your commitment to establishing a safe, healthy environment for your kids. And because you deserve to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your children are in a safe environment when they’re away from home, encourage their friend’s parents and your family members to take the pledge, too. When families work together, they can create the positive and protected environment their children need. Download the free MASKMatters App today and take the Safe Home Pledge at www.maskmatters.org…

TECH: AI-generated photos, videos, and even people are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from real ones. Teach children that “seeing isn’t always believing.” Encourage them to verify content from multiple sources and avoid trusting videos or images, especially if they seem surprising, hurtful or damaging to someone’s reputation. SAFETY: Use AI-based parental control apps to monitor your child’s online exposure. These tools flag harmful content, block risky sites, and track suspicious social media interactions. Apps like Bark and Aura can help ensure your child’s safety online by limiting exposure to dangerous content while offering protective features. BULLYING: AI-driven bullying feels worse than traditional bullying due to anonymity. Bots amplify abuse, making it harder to confront. Encourage children to block and report accounts that engage in harmful behavior online. This step…

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Raising kids in the digital age can feel like trying to teach them a foreign language that they already speak fluently. While we were mastering the fine art of TV time limits, they’ve moved on to navigating apps, social media, and even AI tools with an ease that’s both impressive and, frankly, a little intimidating. Our kids may be digital natives, but they still need a guide to help them make smart choices in this tech saturated world. With a balanced approach—mixing humor, clear boundaries and an open mind—families can help children build a healthy relationship with technology. Here’s what parents and kids alike need to know to stay safe, informed, and empowered in today’s digital landscape. UNDERSTANDING THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE: WHAT PARENTS AND KIDS NEED TO KNOW In today’s…

The internet offers endless learning and entertainment opportunities, but it also has risks, including online predators. Parents can help keep children safe by learning to recognize warning signs and having open, calm conversations that empower kids to navigate the internet confidently. Who Are Online Predators? Online predators are individuals who use the internet to exploit children, often connecting with them through social media, gaming platforms, or messaging apps. While these dangers are rare, it’s important to be aware without alarming your child. Introduce the concept gently, relating it to everyday safety rules, like not talking to strangers. This familiar approach makes it easier for kids to understand. Recognizing Red Flags. Predators often use subtle tactics to build trust, such as giving excessive compliments, sharing secrets, or moving a conversation from…

From online classes and virtual study groups to digital libraries and AI tools, technology plays a huge role in the collegiate academic experience. But with all these benefits come new challenges, such as information overload, managing screen time and protecting personal data. Fortunately, colleges like Arizona State University are well-equipped to help students navigate the digital landscape. We asked ASU’s Academic Support Network staff to touch on the resources available to students looking to enhance their academics with the help of technology or seeking support to manage online safety and well-being. Here’s what they had to say: Q: What are the most common digital resources or tools that college students use in their academic work today, and how can they ensure these tools enhance their learning without compromising integrity? College faculty…

Picture it: It’s 5:30 p.m., and everyone has finally returned from school/work/soccer practice/play rehearsal. They’re home for the night, and they are starving. The thing is, you’ve been busy all day too. You’re so busy, in fact, that you’re only now beginning to think about what to feed the hungry troops. They’re starting to complain, and you know it’s only a matter of time before their crankiness evolves into full-on hanger. You need a plan—preferably one other than boxed mac-and-cheese or frozen pizza—and you need it fast. At least once a week, despite my dedication to meal planning, I find myself in this predicament. I’m happy to tell you I’ve found a solution that is quick, easy, nutritious, and reliably enjoyed by even picky eaters. What is it? Breakfast for…

I remember when I started MASK, back when smartphones were just emerging and MySpace was the go-to social platform. It was a time when kids still played outside, interacted face-to-face, and weren’t tethered to a device in their palms. We had something called eye contact. As I studied the trends affecting children and families, I remember thinking that the thing that would most harm our kids was something we were giving them: cell phones. I’m not trying to pat myself on the back for that prediction; in fact, I wish I’d been wrong. The truth is that smartphones have become a significant distraction and addiction and have had a profound impact on children’s mental health. They’ve also introduced serious safety concerns. When we first gave our kids phones, our intention…

Smartphones, tablets and computers are everywhere, and children are growing up with them as a regular part of their lives. While these devices offer plenty of educational and entertainment value, they also bring up concerns about how they affect kids’ social skills. Experts are starting to look more closely at the potential connection between too much screen time and behaviors that resemble autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Kids who spend a lot of time on screens often miss out on chances to develop crucial social skills. Interacting with others in person helps them learn how to pick up on non-verbal cues, understand different tones of voice, and react appropriately in social situations. These face-to-face moments are key to building empathy and emotional intelligence. By contrast, communicating through texts, social media, or…

Some of the most dangerous products your children might encounter are hiding in plain sight—right on gas station shelves. Marketed as energy boosters or mood enhancers, substances like tianeptine—often called “gas station heroin”—are being sold without proper warnings. These unregulated products can appear harmless but carry serious risks, including addiction and even death. Tianeptine, approved as an antidepressant in some countries, acts on the brain’s opioid receptors, much like drugs such as heroin or fentanyl. While marketed as a mood booster, it creates euphoria and pain relief similar to opioids. However, the packaging often lacks the clear warnings seen on products like alcohol or THC, leaving consumers unaware of the dangers. Many people unknowingly become addicted, believing they’re just taking a harmless supplement. Some gas stations even hand out free…

Parenting comes with plenty of responsibilities—and plenty of driving. That’s why car rides can be the perfect time for quick check-ins with our kids (and they can’t just wander off!). Sitting side by-side without direct eye contact often makes kids, from toddlers to teens, more comfortable opening up. Here’s a guide to making the most of these moments, with lighthearted conversation starters, easy check-ins, and tips on sidestepping any conversation “potholes” that might lead to tension. WHY CAR CHATS ARE PERFECT FOR NON-AWKWARD FAMILY BONDING The car is a naturally low-pressure space for conversations. Kids may feel less “put on the spot” when there’s no direct eye contact, and having a set destination creates a natural time limit for chats. When we’re on the road together, sharing stories, asking questions,…

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how kids learn, offering new educational tools and opportunities. From personalized feedback to interactive learning experiences, AI presents both benefits and challenges. As parents, it’s essential to understand how these tools impact your child’s development, helping them use technology wisely. ✪ AI in the Classroom: Friend or Foe? AI is becoming a staple in schools, used to personalize learning experiences and adapt to each student’s pace. Platforms like adaptive learning tools adjust based on a child’s performance, giving them extra support or new challenges. This approach helps bridge gaps and even saves teachers time, allowing more focus on teaching. According to the World Economic Forum, AI fosters digital literacy and critical thinking, which are essential in the modern job market. ✪ Good Tech, Great Learning:…

Q: My best friend and I love taking pictures together, but she always edits them before posting. She uses Facetune to change how I look, even though I’ve told her I like how I look naturally. She says she’s “making us both look better,” but it’s starting to make me feel bad about myself. I don’t want to make things awkward or lose her as a friend, but I don’t know how to make her stop. What should I do? – Lilly, 8th Grade, Phoenix, AZ A: Hi Lilly, it’s great that you’ve noticed how this makes you feel and that you’ve already tried talking to your friend. Sometimes, people get caught up in creating a “perfect” image and forget that being real is more important. Try having a more…

Between meal prep, laundry piles, and endless car rides, your to-do list can feel like it’s never ending. With all that on your plate, too much screen time can feel like one more thief stealing your precious hours. But what if your phone could be part of the solution? With the right apps in your pocket, you can organize your day, tackle those tasks more efficiently, and even reclaim a little time for yourself. 1| COZI FAMILY ORGANIZER Cozi is the dream app for harried moms. It allows you to set up a shared family calendar with color coding for each family member. To-do lists can be assigned and shared with your kids so you can track their chores as they complete them. All shopping lists can be accessed and updated…