Breaking It Down is a blog series where we break down Youth Speak Out International’s Today’s Digital Citizens curriculum week-by-week, exploring the major concepts and activities. This post looks at the lesson for Week One.  The first moments of any of our summer and afterschool programs are filled with butterflies. Students make decisions right away about the facilitator and what he or she is there to teach them. At the same time, the Youth Speak […]

Digital technology plays a critical role in our daily lives. Many of us are constantly attached to our devices– whether that’s working on a computer, watching a new show through a streaming platform, or simply having our smartphones within reach at all times. But talking about the impact that these devices and platforms have on our lives can be incredibly difficult– especially when it comes to conversations with our children.  In Youth Speak Out International’s […]

Kyra Lane has had quite the journey with Youth Speak Out International. While she’s better known as Ms. K to the students that she teaches in afterschool programs across Palm Beach County, Kyra’s journey with Youth Speak Out started when she was a middle school student herself, sitting in a classroom at Roosevelt Middle School. At the time, she was in love with dance. “Nothing could get my mind off it,” Kyra said. “Until [Mr. King] […]

Many educators in today’s classrooms recognize the importance of creative learning. Whether it’s bringing the arts into academics or encouraging project-based learning, educators recognize that students need to develop a creative mindset in order to meet future challenges.  Technology and the digital world can be a great catalyst for creativity. While there is certainly a risk of passive technology-use, active technology-use encourages students to try new things and create. For example, in Youth Speak Out […]

It is always a good time to celebrate diversity. On Monday, many in the United States celebrated Indigenous People’s Day, and this weekend will mark the end of Hispanic Heritage Month. As we reflect on the diverse people who make up our communities, it is important to consider the role that the digital world plays in creating a more equal society.  According to the United Nations, access to the internet is a human right. Without […]