Body image and social media: Escaping the comparison trap

In this lesson, students consider the ways in which social media may prompt them to compare themselves with others, and the impacts that can have on body image and self-esteem. They analyze how the features, algorithms and culture of the social networks they use may affect them and will produce “paper prototypes” of redesigned social media apps that promote more healthful use. Finally, students reflect on how they can change how they use the existing apps to be more like their redesigned versions.

Young Canadians in a Wireless World, Phase IV: Relationships and technology: Sexting

Young Canadians in a Wireless World (YCWW) is Canada’s longest running and most comprehensive research study on young people’s attitudes, behaviours and opinions regarding the internet, technology and digital media. This report is the second of two reports focusing on relationships and technology. In it, we share findings related to sending, receiving, and forwarding sexts and highlight what the YCWW Phase IV survey data tells us about young Canadians’ motivations and attitudes for engaging in sexting. We also speak to the role of trust and support in sexting behaviours among youth, focusing specifically on the impact of adult involvement and supervision and the desire for further educational support on this topic. Finally, we share resources that are currently available on the MediaSmarts website regarding sexting and highlight current research in the field that expands upon what we offer in this report.

Within the Phase IV YCWW survey, questions related to sexting were only available to participants in grades 7 to 11 (n=659). Overall, the sample size for youth who indicated they engaged in sexting was very small; in most cases, n=110 or less.

Canada’s Teen Fact-Checking Network Renewed for 2025 After Successful First Year

December 12, 2024 – MediaSmarts is pleased to announce the renewal of Canada’s Teen Fact-Checking Network (TFCN) program for a second year, continuing its mission to promote digital media literacy and fact-checking among youth.  

Outcome Chart - British Columbia - Physical and Health Education 7

This outcome chart contains media-related learning outcomes from the BC Grade 7 Physical and Health Education curriculum, with links to supporting resources on the MediaSmarts site.

Outcome Chart - British Columbia - Physical and Health Education 5

This outcome chart contains media-related learning outcomes from the BC Grade 5 Physical and Health Education curriculum, with links to supporting resources on the MediaSmarts site.

Outcome Chart – Nunavut - School Health Program 6

Overall Expectations: Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Alberta – Physical Education and Wellness Grade 6

Safety

A lifetime of optimal well-being is supported by prioritizing health and safety.

Guiding Question

In what ways might risk influence the outcome of an action?

Learning Outcome

Students examine risk and identify the factors that influence action.

Knowledge

Risk is the overall assessment and identification of hazards related to personal safety and vulnerability.

Screen-Free Week

Screen-Free Week is an annual event that traditionally takes place in May. Each year people from around the world make a conscious decision to turn off screens of all kinds for the week.

Doctors should counsel parents of young children on screen time

June 1, 2017 – As exposure to digital media in Canadian family life increases, so have concerns about how screen time affects children and families. A new statement from the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) recommends that physicians and health care providers counsel parents and caregivers of young children on how to minimize screen time and mitigate its potential negative effects. The CPS also recommends that physicians guide parents on how to mindfully use and model healthy screen use to encourage positive habits.

Alberta – Physical Education and Wellness Grade 4

Safety

A lifetime of optimal well-being is supported by prioritizing health and safety.

Guiding Question

How can taking responsibility impact safety?

Learning Outcome

Students analyze and explain responsibility and how it can impact personal and group safety.

Knowledge: Responsibility includes making decisions to ensure self or others are not in unsafe and uncomfortable situations.