South Washington County SchoolsIndependent School District #833

Children and young adults are living in a world their parents could never have imagined. From the constant connection of social media to the immediate availability of information and goods online, the way children live and learn is changing. All of these changes are impacting mental health. South Washington County Schools, a school district of nearly 19,000 students in suburban Minnesota, is starting a conversation about what these changes mean for their students, families and communities.

Throughout this four-part series, we’ll cover the ways technology and social media have changed education, what it is like to be a student today, the benefits and risks of living online, the community partnerships that are building support for children and young adults, and how you can take action to empower and educate your child live a happier, healthier life.

Resources for Families

Spark & Stitch Institute 

Spark & Stitch Institute™ is a Walsh family project. It is the culmination of over thirty years of serving parents and educators by translating research in the fields of child and adolescent development, experiential education, digital media, and youth thriving. Spark & Stitch Institute was created by Erin Walsh, her parents Dr. Dave and Monica Walsh, and creative collaborators including artist Molly Van Avery. We are committed to sparking greater understanding of why kids need courage and connection to thrive and how to foster it in the digital age.

• Screen Time
• Connection & Courage 
• Parenting Babies, Toddlers and Kids 
• Parenting Teenagers

Youth Service Bureau

Youth Service Bureau’s mission is to help youth and families learn the skills they need to be more successful at home, in school and throughout their community. Our vision is to be the leader in providing youth and family services throughout the St. Croix Valley.

• Classes & Events 
• Social Media Resource Guide 
• Social Media/Gaming Resources

Common Sense Media 

Since 2003, Common Sense has been the leading source of entertainment and technology recommendations for families and schools. Every day, millions of parents and educators trust Common Sense reviews and advice to help them navigate the digital world with their kids. Together with policymakers, industry leaders, and global media partners, we're building a digital world that works better for all kids, their families, and their communities.

• Family Media Agreement