Concerned Mother: My daughter is more interested in creating and posting social media content than studies

Dear Agony Aunt,

I hope you can offer some advice as I am feeling quite distressed about my daughter’s behavior. My daughter, Sarah, is currently studying in primary school and I am concerned about her lack of interest in her studies.

She used to be an excellent student, but lately, she seems to have lost focus and motivation. Instead of spending time on her homework and projects, she is more interested in creating and posting videos on social media platforms. It seems like she is more focused on competing with her classmates for likes and shares rather than excelling academically.

I am worried that this trend will have a negative impact on her future. How can I help her regain her interest in her studies and steer her away from excessive social media use?

Thank you,
Concerned Mother

Dear Concerned Mother,

I can understand your worries about your daughter’s current engagement with social media and the potential impact it may have on her academic performance. It’s not uncommon for children to become distracted by the allure of social media and the instant gratification it provides through likes and shares. However, it’s important to address this issue sensitively and proactively.

First and foremost, I would encourage you to have an open and honest conversation with your daughter about your concerns. Listen to her perspective and try to understand what drives her to spend so much time on social media. Perhaps there are underlying reasons for her disinterest in her studies that need to be addressed.

Additionally, you can work with her teachers to develop a plan that nurtures her academic interests. Maybe there are ways to integrate her passion for creating videos into her school projects or assignments. This could not only reignite her interest in learning but also serve as a creative outlet for her.

It’s also crucial to set boundaries around social media use. Encourage her to allocate specific times for engaging in social media while ensuring that her academic responsibilities are met. By establishing a healthy balance, she can continue to enjoy her online activities while also prioritizing her studies.

Lastly, it might be helpful to introduce her to positive role models who have found success through their academic achievements. Whether it’s through mentorship programs or inspirational stories, exposing her to the benefits of excelling in school can help reshape her perspective.

Remember, patience and understanding are key in addressing these issues. With your support and guidance, I am confident that your daughter can regain her focus and excel academically.

Best wishes,
Agony Aunt