July 1: The World They’re Growing Up In
The World They're Growing Up In
Last month we spent time exploring ways to put screens to one side every now and then; not because technology is the enemy, but because creating space for conversations, hobbies, fresh air and quiet moments can make a real difference to children's and teen’s (and adult’s) wellbeing.
This month we’re taking that conversation further because once the screens are switched off, one important question remains...
What are our children seeing, hearing and learning from the world around them?
Children and teens don't grow up in a bubble. Every day they're surrounded by messages about who belongs, what success looks like, how they should behave, what they should look like, who they should fear and whose voices matter. Those messages come from social media, news headlines, television, advertising, influencers, politicians, schools, friends and, of course, from the adults around them.
Some of those messages help children grow into kind, confident and compassionate adults. Others can quietly chip away at their confidence, shape their beliefs or leave them questioning whether they truly belong. As parents, carers and educators, it can sometimes feel overwhelming because we can't control every conversation our children hear or every video that appears on their feed.
But we can help them make sense of the world.
Throughout July, we'll be exploring how society influences children's identities, relationships and mental health. We'll look at topics including body image, belonging, online culture, gender stereotypes, prejudice, representation, friendship, the impact of difficult news and why creating safe, inclusive environments matters so much for every child.
These won't be designed to tell you how to parent, they won't point fingers or offer impossible solutions. They'll be opportunities to pause, reflect and perhaps see familiar challenges through a different lens.
This series is built on hope.
Because while the world undoubtedly shapes our children, we shape it too. Every conversation around the dinner table, every time we challenge an unfair stereotype, every moment we choose kindness over judgement and every opportunity we give a child to feel seen, heard and valued.
If last month was about creating space, this month is about thinking carefully about what fills it.
Join us as we explore the world our children are growing up in and the part we can all play.
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