The narrative surrounding social media often suggests it poses a threat to our children’s creativity. Numerous studies circulate—often shared on social media itself—warning parents that if we don’t intervene, our digital-savvy kids may become mere shadows of their potential selves. Social media supposedly contributes to depression, diminishes communication skills, and, most recently, is said to “rob them of their boredom,” thereby stifling creativity.
Glennon Doyle, in her book Untamed, expresses concern that providing our children with smartphones deprives them of boredom, which she believes is essential for fostering creativity. “When we hand our children phones, we steal their boredom,” she reflects, going on to suggest we’re raising a generation of untapped writers, artists, and musicians.
While her words are compelling, they also feel exaggerated. As parents, we must examine whether our fears are based on solid evidence or if we’re merely echoing age-old anxieties about the youth of today—a recurring theme throughout history. Socrates himself argued against writing, claiming it would undermine memory.
Every technological advancement has historically been met with skepticism—books, radio, television, and now the internet—each deemed a potential threat to humanity. Social media and the internet certainly have their downsides, but they also offer incredible opportunities for creativity.
In my family, both my children have thrived creatively thanks to social media. My son, for instance, self-taught piano and coding skills through online resources. He’s not just playing simple tunes; he’s mastered Debussy’s “Clair de Lune.” Meanwhile, my daughter has explored drawing, painting, and cartooning, fueled by inspiration found online. Other parents echo similar experiences; for example, a mother shared that her daughter, who is on the autism spectrum, gained confidence in singing through YouTube tutorials.
As someone who teaches violin and viola, I see firsthand how platforms like YouTube enhance learning. Many music instructors will attest that today’s young musicians have access to resources that were unimaginable just a few decades ago, making them more skilled than previous generations.
If skepticism remains about the creative potential of social media, just look at TikTok. Gen Z is actively engaging in dance, music, and various creative challenges. Each impressive post likely reflects countless hours of dedication and practice, not mere aimless scrolling.
We, as adults, need to engage with our children’s social media habits rather than assume we understand their experiences. Instead of falling into the trap of blaming technology for the decline of creativity, let’s recognize that the internet and social media are tools that can be used constructively or destructively—it’s all about how they are utilized.
For more insights on this topic, you can explore this blog post that dives deeper into related themes.
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Summary:
The debate over whether social media stifles creativity in children continues. While concerns are valid, it’s crucial to recognize the positive aspects of technology. Many young people are using social media as a tool for creative expression and learning, showcasing their talents across various platforms. Engaging with our children’s experiences online can help us appreciate the potential benefits of these digital tools.
Keyphrase: Social Media and Child Creativity
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