Raising Teens in a Digital World
Why In-Person Connection Matters More Than Ever
In this enlightening conversation, we are joined by Kirsten McCormick. Musician turned youth advocate, and mother of five from Texas who is revolutionizing teen experiences. We discuss the need for in-person connections among teenagers in this digital age, and the innovative programs Kirsten has developed, including Teen Connect and Teen Connect Adventures. Programs that are helping teens develop meaningful social connections, improve their mental health and foster their creativity.
The conversation emphasizes fostering independence in children, the significance of real-world experiences, and the valuable lessons learned through failure. Kirsten discusses the importance of allowing kids to make mistakes in a safe environment and highlights the significance of recognizing each teen as an individual, and the transformative power of travel in fostering empathy and personal growth.
Kirsten shares her journey of grounding in authenticity and the lessons learned from her children, particularly in navigating emotions. The conversation culminates in the importance of creating opportunities for teens to explore and connect with the world around them.
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In this episode...
Takeaways:
- Creating our own reality is possible through purposeful actions.
- In-person connections are crucial for teenagers’ development.
- Free range play is vital for building confidence and responsibility.
- Failure is a necessary part of learning and growth.
- Real-world experiences help teens develop resilience and independence.
- Creating safe spaces allows kids to experiment and grow.
- Recognizing teens as individuals fosters their development.
- Travel broadens perspectives and fosters empathy.
- Grounding in authenticity enhances personal growth.
- Experiences outside comfort zones are transformative.
The guest
Kirsten McCormick
From Texas roots to global impact, this mother of five is reshaping the landscape of teen development. A classically trained vocalist and lifelong advocate for youth, her journey began with a transformative service trip to the Philippines at 16, igniting a passion for meaningful experiences and connections. Her unconventional path includes traversing the U.S. in a converted school bus with her family, embracing the “free range kids” philosophy, and relocating to Mexico during the pandemic.
It was here, witnessing the isolation of her own teenagers, that she founded Teen Connect – a program designed to combat the growing disconnect among youth. What started as a local initiative in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, quickly blossomed into a thriving community. Teen Connect offers a variety of activities from outdoor adventures to entrepreneurship classes, all focused on fostering face-to-face connections and building confidence.
Recognizing the global need for such programs, she expanded her vision to create Teen Connect Adventure Camps. These immersive experiences bring U.S. teenagers to Central Mexico, offering them a chance to unplug from the digital world and plug into real-life adventures and friendships.
Her approach is rooted in the belief that today’s teenagers face unprecedented pressures and expectations without adequate support. Through Teen Connect, she aims to provide a space where young people can discover themselves, build genuine relationships, and develop the confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world.
With a background spanning musical theater, choir directing, and youth work in various settings, she brings a unique blend of creativity and practical experience to her programs. Her mission is clear: to change the world by empowering teenagers to connect authentically, explore freely, and grow confidently.
Join her in this transformative journey, where every teen has the opportunity to unplug, discover, and thrive in a supportive, real-world community.
Get a FREE copy of her Parent’s Guidebook
Kirsten’s Website – Teen Connect Adventures
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