6. Finding Balance in a Digital World

Which is a benefit of being connected 24/7? (select all that apply)

• I can keep in touch with my friends and family anytime.

• Being online can distract me from being present with my family, like at dinner.

• I feel like I always have to respond to a message right away, even if I don't want to.

• I can easily look up information, like the weather, whenever I want.

What is a Red Flag Feeling?

•  When something happens on digital media that makes you feel uncomfortable, worried, sad, or anxious.

• A feeling you get when you are in danger.

• When a person displays a behavior that could be a problem.

• The feeling you get when your teacher is watching you on a site you shouldn't be on.

Which of the following best describes the concept of media balance?

• Not using any form of digital media.

• Getting distracted by digital media when doing homework.

• Choosing to play only your favorite video games.

• 
  Using digital media in a way that feels healthy and in balance with your other life activities.

Kaira likes to create art, especially paintings. But lately Kaira has been so busy keeping up with friends online that there never seems to be enough time. Imagine you're Kaira. What should you do?

• Wait until your schedule slows down. You can always do your art later.

• Use a sketching app while watching videos so you can focus on two things at the same time.

• Schedule time to paint and turn off your phone during that time. It's important to do the things you like.

• Cross this activity off your list because you can't do everything.

Kendall likes to relax before bed by watching funny videos on her phone, but she often loses track of time and doesn't go to sleep until really late. Then she has a hard time waking up for school in the morning, making her feel grumpy. Thinking about the Digital Habits Checkup, what would be an appropriate challenge for Kendall to try?

• Using her phone to chat with friends instead of watching videos.

• Setting a timer to watch videos for 15 minutes, then putting her phone on a charger in another room at night.

• Forcing herself to go to sleep early without having a moment to relax.

• Watching videos earlier when she's doing her homework.

• Sam is within reach of getting a high score in a popular video game. Sam also has homework. Bedtime is in 30 minutes. Imagine you're Sam. What should you do?

• Play on! You can probably get your homework done on the school bus.

• Log off. Do homework first and then play as late as you like to get that high score.

• • Play on! If you win, share your score before you go to bed.

• • Log off. Next time, plan to do homework first, play a game or two, and "unplug" for 30 minutes or more before bedtime. Research shows you'll sleep better.

Chris likes to create art. Making things by hand feels good. But lately Chris is so busy keeping up with friends online that there never seems to be enough time. Imagine you're Chris. What should you do?

• • Wait to see if your schedule slows down again, such as when the school year ends.

• • Use a sketching app while watching videos or while someone else is talking.

• Schedule times for making art by hand, invite interested friends, and turn off your phones.

• • Cross this activity off your list, because you can't do everything. 

Which of the following best describes the concept of being able to unplug?

• When you are only on your device when it is unplugged from the charger.

• To use all wireless devices while using technology.

• To engage in activities that don’t involve devices, apps, or the internet.

• To turn all your social media accounts on mute or delete them.