Ebony Bagley - Internet Wellness Advocate - Blog

Today marks the anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre, a tragic and pivotal event in American history that took place from May 31 to June 1, 1921. On this day, we remember and reflect on the devastation wrought upon the thriving Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This event, often overlooked in mainstream education, offers a profound opportunity to educate and engage with our children about history, systematic racism, historical accountability, and resilience. In 2024 this conversation is particularly timely due to the growing national and global awareness of current injustices and urgent calls for peace and reparative justice. Discussing this event with your children helps them understand the roots and consequences of racial injustice, fostering empathy and awareness. By acknowledging and learning from past atrocities, we can better advocate for equality and justice in our present and future. Let's Talk About It When discussing the Tulsa Race Massacre with young chi...

In a world where the digital landscape is ever-expanding, social media often gets a bad rap. I read countless stories every week on its negative impacts—addiction, misinformation, and social isolation. But like any tool, the true value depends on how we use it. When used with integrity and balance, social media can be a powerful force for good, helping us all grow, learn, and connect in meaningful ways. One of the most significant benefits of social media is the wealth of information at our fingertips. Platforms like X, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok are vehicles for sharing knowledge across every conceivable field. You can follow industry leaders, educators, influencers and innovators who provide insights that help you stay informed and inspired. Consider how many of us have used online tutorials to learn new skills—whether it’s cooking a gourmet meal, mastering a musical instrument, or understanding complex scientific concepts. These platforms democratize knowledge, making education ac...

As we navigate through Mental Health Month, it's crucial to reflect on how we can better support our mental health, especially in a world increasingly dominated by technology. As an internet wellness advocate and a mother, I've seen firsthand the impact that tech use can have on children and adults when there are no boundaries. Here are some practical strategies to help you and your family work towards a more balanced relationship with technology to improve overall mental wellness.  1. Create Tech-Free Zones and Times: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to promote mental health is by establishing tech-free zones and times in your home. Designate specific areas, like the dining room, as tech-free zones where family members can engage in face-to-face conversations without distractions. Similarly, set aside tech-free times, such as during meals or the first hour after school, to encourage family bonding and relaxation. 2. Model Healthy Tech Habits Children learn by observ...

In today's digital age, it's almost second nature to reach for our phones and scroll through social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become integral parts of our daily lives. But while these apps can be entertaining and informative, they also harbor a darker side: the insidious habit of comparison and, most of us are guilty of it. This constant comparison can be particularly harmful to teen girls and women, especially when they follow accounts that perpetuate unrealistic standards and lifestyles. The "Perfect" Image? Social media is flooded with images of people who seem to have it all: Whether it's the idealized domestic bliss of trad couples, the polished parenting of momfluencers, or the glamorous lifestyles of influencers, these posts set unrealistic standards that can make us feel inadequate and like we are never doing enough. For example, seeing a trad wife making bubble gum from scratch, a momfluencer’s picture-perfect birthday par...

Navigating the tween years these days can feel like trying to decipher a new language. Kids between 9 and 12 are in a unique phase, transitioning from childhood to adolescence. They’re seeking independence, exploring identities, and often feel misunderstood. One of the best ways to bridge this gap is through meaningful conversation.  As the parent of a 10-year-old girl who has a social life of her own, after-school activities, an iPad and loves her Roblox this is not always easy. But,  putting down the devices and having real, face-to-face talks is crucial in this digital world.  The goal isn’t to interrogate or invade their privacy (which all kids/teens deserve) but to create a space where your tween feels heard and valued. Working to build a deeper connection with your tween now will lay the foundation for a strong, supportive relationship as they navigate the exciting and sometimes tumultuous journey into adolescence. So, make the moments,  during meals, car rides...

Let’s be honest, parenting is a marathon, not a sprint. There are days when I feel like I'm crushing it—everyone's fed, the house is clean (ish), and I've even cleaned out my email inbox. And then there are days when the chaos is real, and all I want is to survive those days with some of my sanity intact and five minutes to drink my coffee while it's still hot. On those days and even the easy ones, I have zero guilt about handing my kids their devices.  Sure, there’s a lot of talk about screen time these days, and when I started advocating for internet wellness over 10 years ago, it was one of my main concerns. But living in the real world with my  kids that are no longer babies or toddlers shifted my entire perspective and humbled me. iPads, our PS3, and our Smart TVs have saved my sanity more times than I can count! Whether it’s a Paw Patrol episode or an educational and fun YouTube video, I see it as a win-win. The kids are happy, entertained, and most times even lea...

As parents and guardians in this new digital age, it's crucial to equip our children with the tools and confidence they need to navigate the digital world safely. With the rise of social media and online interactions, kids are increasingly exposed to racism and harassment. And with this being an election year, the incidence of racism and harassment online is likely to spike as political tensions rise and divisive rhetoric becomes more prevalent. This heightened climate can lead to increased instances of hate speech, discriminatory comments, and harassment, particularly on social media platforms where people can often times hide behind fake personas. It's crucial for parents to be aware of this and proactively address and discuss these issues with their children, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, respectful discourse, and the steps they can take to protect themselves. Having open, honest conversations about these issues can empower them to respond effectively and ...

Can you believe it's that time of year again? As the school year slowly winds down and summer vacation inches closer, that means more time at home with the kiddos and opportunities for quality family time. But with the lure of screens and devices always present, how do we make the most out of our time together? I've got some tips to help you embrace screen-free family fun as we head into summer. Remember, balance is key! 1. Plan Outdoor Adventures: With warmer weather on the horizon, there's no better time to explore the great outdoors as a family. Plan hiking trips, beach day, bike rides, or picnics in the park and unplug and tune in to nature and the outdoors. 2. Get Creative: Tap into your inner artist and get crafty with the kids. Set up a DIY crafting station at home and spend an afternoon creating masterpieces together. From painting and drawing to DIY projects that need to be tackled around the home, the possibilities are endless! 3. Cook Up Some Fun: Get the whole...

Let's talk about a scenario that can send any parent’s heart racing: your kid or teen stumbling upon something they shouldn't online. It's a situation none of us want to face, but in today's digital world, its not a question of “if” its going to happen but “when,” and it's essential to be prepared. So, what should you do if your kid or even teen one comes across inappropriate or adult content online? 1. Stay Calm: First things first, take a deep breath. It's completely natural to feel shocked or upset, but staying calm will help you handle the situation more effectively. 2. Assess the Situation: Ask your child what they saw and how they came across it. Understanding the context can help you determine the best course of action. 3. Provide Reassurance: Let your child know that they're not in trouble and that it's okay to come to you with anything they see online that makes them uncomfortable. 4. Limit Exposure: If possible, minimize your child's exposu...

Let's chat about something that's been on my mind lately since I can't escape it in the media and its even causing a stir among some of our favorite musical artists: Deepfakes. I know, it sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? But trust me, it's something we need to be increasingly aware of, especially in this digital age where we are practically glued to their screens and in many cases constantly sharing information. So, what exactly are deepfakes? Well, imagine your little one's face being swapped with a cartoon character's in a video, or someone making it look like your teenager is saying things they'd never dream of saying, or someone making a song that sounds just like your favorite artist but, it's not. Deepfakes are digital manipulations that use artificial intelligence (AI) to create realistic-looking videos or images that depict people saying or doing things they never actually did. These can range from harmless fun, like swapping f...

In today's digital age, the internet offers endless opportunities for connection, learning, and creativity. However, with these opportunities also come significant challenges, one of the most pressing being cyberbullying. Recent events, such as the heartbreaking incident involving Stanley , serves as a stark reminder: sharing private or embarrassing photos of others is not just hurtful, it's also against the law. Cyberbullying doesn't just harm the victim—it can have serious consequences for the perpetrators as well. Imagine being Stanley, now a victim of cyberbullying, whose privacy was violated when a private moment was shared online for the world to see. This isn't just a matter of hurt feelings—it's a breach of trust and a violation of the law. As adults guiding the next generation, it's essential for us to address this issue head-on. Once something is posted online, it can spread rapidly and have enduring effects. What may seem like a harmless joke to one p...

Hey there!! Welcome to my blog where I'll share what's going on and updates! I'm Ebony Bagley, and I live in Novi with my husband, two kids, and our dog. My journey into advocating for internet safety and wellness began during my teaching days. Although I've transitioned into the communications field, my commitment to educating and informing the public about navigating the digital world safely remains. Let's get real for a sec. In a world where emojis speak louder than words and TikTok dance videos reign supreme, finding balance is key. That's where I come in! Whether tackling top tech troubles or reminding fellow screen-time warriors to unplug and recharge, I'm all about maintaining balance. Alongside workshops for kids, teens, families, and organizations, I've launched the 'Senior Tech Academy' to help seniors engage with their devices safely and enjoyably. Certified in cybersecurity and AI, I'm constantly researching and following technolo...