
Episode #21
Youth, Social Media, & Discipleship (Ep.021)
Social media isn't just changing how our kids communicate—it’s shaping their identity, attention, and relationships. In this episode of The 4:12 Podcast, host Ryan is joined by Kara Dawson (Connections Director and Girls Ministry Leader at Restoration Church) for a vital conversation on youth, screen time, and digital discipleship. Having spent years researching and creating curriculum on the impact of social media on teenage girls, Kara offers a realistic, biblically grounded perspective on the true costs of smartphone culture. Together, they explore practical guardrails, the psychology behind infinite scrolling, and actionable strategies for parents looking to shepherd their children safely through their formative years. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Hidden Cost: Why time and undivided attention are our most squandered resources. Visual Comparison & Relational Aggression: How social media uniquely impacts teenage girls. The "Wait Until 16" Rule: Why tying social media access to a driver's license builds healthy boundaries. Overcoming Addiction: How replacing screen time with real-world alternatives works better than white-knuckling. Parenting in Community: How families can partner together so kids don't feel isolated. Whether you're raising young children, navigating the teenage years, or simply looking to evaluate your own digital habits, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical steps forward.

