Internet safety crusader to address parents about dangers of social media use

Photo by AntonioGuillem/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

ST. GEORGE — Snow Canyon High School is hosting a free “Save the Kids and Save the Parents” education night on Thursday to talk to parents about the impacts of social media and screen time on their teen’s safety and well-being.

The event will take place in the high school auditorium at 6 p.m. and will feature internet safety crusader Collin Kartchner, who has been using Instagram to spread awareness about the negative influence of social media on teens.

Since he began his crusade in January, Kartchner has over 67,000 followers and regularly speaks to teens and parents alike about the negative effects of social media on mental health and relationships. His website, #savethekids, includes resources and information regarding addiction, suicide and lowered self-esteem related to social media, as well as stories shared by teens and parents about their experiences and the power of deleting social media accounts.

Kartchner aims to show the world how social media can be used for good, fighting its negative effects to promote positivity. Previously, he was able to raise $125,000 for victims of Hurricane Harvey and has organized fundraisers for children fighting cancer and for orphanages in South America.

He also raised $15,000 in only three hours to put up “You Are Beautiful” and “You Are Loved” billboards in honor of a girl named Whitney who committed suicide after being bullied on social media about the way she looked in middle school. Whitney’s story is what originally inspired Kartchner to begin his crusade.

Speaking alongside Kartchner will be Katey McPherson, adjunct faculty at Grand Canyon University and Arizona State University, co-author of book, “WTF: Why Teens Fail-What To Fix” and an internet safety expert.

A local panel including a therapist, pediatrician and police officer will also be present to answer questions after the presentation.

Parents with kids of all ages, as well as interested community members, are welcome to attend the education night and hear the guest speakers.

Event details

  • What: Save the Kids and Save the Parents.
  • When: Sept. 13, at 6 p.m.
  • Where: Snow Canyon High School auditorium.
  • Admission: Free.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter:  @STGnews | @MikaylaShoup

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2018, all rights reserved.

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