What is Media Literacy?
Children today face a barrage of media - from blatant television commercials and subtle product placement to the internet they carry in their pockets. While television, the internet, and social media can bring unlimited potential for positive growth in a child's life, there is also the potential for negative impact. Children's use of media has been linked to obesity and other health issues including smoking, aggressive behavior, and a rush to sexual maturity. Additionally, children represent a direct voice to parents to encourage them to spend money on anything and everything.
Media literacy skills give children the ability to understand the media they see and use, and the ability to think critically about the messages they receive. They learn to question who is behind media messages and what might their motives be. Media literate children can begin to separate facts from opinions, and make informed decisions for themselves. Additionally, they can benefit from creating their own media messages. They can design a webpage, make a music video, or create an advertisement for television. With these skills, children take control of the media that surrounds them, rather than letting it control them.
We at Screen Savvy Kids have the experience and expertise to provide children with these skills, whether through programs for children, or workshops designed for parents, educators and community organizers who care about kids.
Contact us to learn more.
