Leaning into Curiosity Over Control

AI and social media are part of our kids’ everyday lives. Instead of trying to control every device or app, we can reclaim relationship—building trust, empathy, and open conversation so teens feel safe turning to us (and other trusted adults) when it matters most.

📺Watch the recording here: 

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Why Teens Turn to AI (and what that tells us)

Many young people use AI like a “digital diary.” It feels neutral, always available, and non-judgmental. Underneath that behavior are real needs: connection, affirmation, curiosity, creativity, self-expression, and belonging. Our job isn’t to ban technology—it’s to help teens get those needs met in healthy, human ways through family, school, and community.

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The Coaching Mindset: Curious, Not Corrective

Teens open up when they feel heard, not fixed. Try leading with “I’m curious…” and avoid “why” questions that can feel critical or agenda-driven.

Instead of: “Why would you spend so many hours on that app?”

Try: “I’m curious—what do you get from TikTok? What does it give you?”

Conversation Starters (Not Lectures)

Use these open-ended prompts to spark reflection without defensiveness:

• How do you use AI?
• What do you like about it?
• What worries you about it?
• What is this app/tool offering you?
• What need is it meeting? Where might it fall short?
• What need is it meeting that isn’t being met by someone in real life?
• How do you feel after spending time online?

Pro tip: Ask. Then listen. Save advice or boundaries for later in the conversation.

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Add More of What You Want (Don’t Just Restrict)

Tech isn’t going away. Focus on adding connection so screens aren’t the only place needs get met:

• Family connection rituals: device-free meals, board games, walks, movie nights
• Shared hobbies: learn or practice something side-by-side
• Model balance: narrate your own healthy tech boundaries (“It’s 8pm—I’m plugging in my phone and grabbing my book.”)
• Follow feeds that fuel you: help your teen curate positive, skill-building, or inspiring accounts
• Flip the Script on Comparison: normalize that social media is a highlight reel; ask “What’s one good thing that happened this week?” or try a casual gratitude check-in

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What We’re Hearing from Teens

When teens have a neutral, human space to talk, they calm, clarify, and problem-solve. They don’t want a script; they want to be treated like a real person and guided to their own conclusions. That’s the core of Clayful’s coaching approach.

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Keep Learning: Previous Webinar Recaps

• Everyday Stress Solutions for Parents & Teens
• How to Get Your Teen to Open Up

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Want More Support?

Clayful offers easy, everyday tools for families and schools to strengthen connection and mental well-being.

💬 Clayful for Caregivers – Join our free Back-to-School Reset program: 4 weeks of short, daily texts with tips to lower stress and build calm. Sign up here ›

👂 1:1 Coaching – Chat live with a certified coach between 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Sign up here >  

🧠 For Students – Two free text-based programs:

• Stress Tools – helps students manage test and life pressure. Learn more ›
• Creative Confidence – builds self-expression and courage. Learn more ›

If your child is under 13, please complete parent consent › so they can access Clayful.

California families: adding insurance info may help your school get Medi-Cal reimbursement for Clayful services.

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