The internet can be a sad tire fire at times, but today we’re going to take a look at how to create positive content online. All of these strategies can be used with your kids, students, or just on your own. We can all do better! We spend a lot of time in the digital world so it’s worth making it a more positive place. Let’s tidy things up a bit.
Small actions make a big difference
There are a number of small things you can do in your daily digital life to make the internet a better place. The biggest one is to build gratitude and positivity into your social media life. Someone does something nice for you? Give them a shout online. Someone says something kind online? Let the know you heard it and that they rock.
See something positive online? Like, share, comment, or follow to let the algorithms know you value positive content over the latest Kardashian family hair pulling. It makes a huge difference. Everything online is set up to get our attention and inspire some type of engagement. Make sure content creators and developers take notice.
Leave positive reviews for local businesses. A lot more potential customers will find that amazing mom-and-pop burger joint you love if you do.
Hit the “report” button if you see hate or bullying online. The quicker it is removed the better. If you know the person posting it talk to them, try to help them learn how to create positive content online too.
For even more tips check out this article by the team at Do Something.
Big actions make a big difference too
This is a fun one. Find something you’re passionate about (or drag it out of your teenager) and then start something around that passion that will improve your community and make people happy. That sounds hard, you say? Yeah, maybe. And it will be totally worth it. The size of the project will be up to you. It could be a lemonade stand where the money is donated or it could be starting a small business.
Start by talking to your kids to see what they’re into. Maybe it’s the environment, or a new skatepark, or movies, or music, or starting a business. Not only is this a great way to start a project, it’s a great way to connect with your family.
Once you have a passion project, you can use the internet to find out more about everything that goes into it. How much would it cost, where would it go, what permits would you need, how would you fundraise, who could build it, and what skills or tools do you need? The questions are endless and that’s ok. Using the internet and asking questions in real life, you will start to find answers. The project will start to move forward. You and your family will start to build strong online research skills and understand the positive power of the internet by accessing information, support, and resources.
Working on a project together is one of the best ways to build strong social bonds, inspire a love of learning and building, and give kids a sense of self-worth and confidence.
There is a strong chance this project will not be easy, but few powerful things in life are. Preach perseverance and model it yourself.
Kermode has project-based learning
Shout out to the team at Kermode for creating some amazing project-based learning explorations. They are around financial literacy and mental health, youth online gambling, and creating positive change in your community. Check them out on the RESOURCES page.
