Ever wonder what’s really happening when your teen spends time online? These conversation starters help you find out.
Between the endless scrolling, the latest trending apps and reels, and the brain rot our kids encounter, it’s tough parenting in the digital age. As moms ourselves, we know it can be a struggle to keep up with what our teens are doing online.
That’s why we created the Hashtag Real Talk: Conversation Starters About the Digital World printable to help moms connect with their teens about what really happens on their screens. From influencers and trends to privacy, cyberbullying, and how it all affects their identity, these questions open the door to meaningful, non-awkward conversations. (We tested them on our own teens!)
These questions will help you:
- Learn about the apps and creators your teen cares about.
- Understand the positive (yes, there are some!) things he’s learning online.
- Explore her understanding of online boundaries and privacy.
- Open a safe space to discuss any negative experiences he might encounter.
- Gain insight into the pressures she feels to fit in online.
- Help him think critically about the content he consumes and shares.
How to make the most of these conversation starters:
- Pick the right moment. Bring up a question during a car ride, while making dinner, or by shooting your teen a text. (Since you’re parenting in the digital age, you may as well take advantage of the technology!)Â
- Actively listen. Really listen to your teen’s responses without judgment. This encourages her to share more openly.
- Share your own experiences. When relevant, briefly sharing a relatable experience from your own teen years (even if the technology was different) can help your teen feel seen and understood.
- Make it a regular thing. Aim for short, informal chats rather than one long, intense discussion. Ongoing touch points can help you identify potential warning signs before they escalate into serious problems.
- Be curious, not critical. If your teen gives an unexpected answer, don’t panic! It’s an opportunity to understand how they’re thinking and where they might need guidance.Â
- Follow her lead. If a particular question sparks a deeper conversation, let it flow naturally.
Download your free conversation starters now and have your first meaningful digital discussion tonight.
