Mobile Technology Helping Kids Combat Bullying & Peer Pressure – Yuzzip – 24 Nov 2010

Mobile technology can inspire youth and help transform communities with life coaching tools, common sense reminders and making mentoring programs more efficient and effective.   We know that one bad decision can derail a child’s life forever. Everyday kids face relentless bullying and peer pressure by other children who have a powerful influence over them.

So, how do you change behavior and reach these at-risk kids while providing a positive influence? The answer is through their cell phones. It’s estimated that up to 75% of kids over 9 years old have a cell phone in the US.

The Power Texting Mentor Network uses text messages to connect at risk youth with a team of mentors from all walks of life; professionals, doctors, military, police officers, athletes and more. Mentors use Power Texting as a life-coaching tool to send customized motivational messages and encouragement to combat the destructive influence of others.

We know that in order to reach today’s kids, we must meet them where they are, which is absolutely through their cell phones and mobile technology. According to the Nielson Company, which analyzed mobile phone usage by 13-to 17-year-olds from April to June of 2010. The study found that teenage girls send an average of 4,050 text messages a month, or eight text messages each waking hour. That’s a 443% increase in the monthly data use by teenagers from a year ago, October 2009.

Peer pressure and bullying can be a 24/7 nightmare for children, especially with technology. The goal is to save them from isolation, make them feel a part of a group and surround them with realistic and positive messages specific to their situation. With Power Texting mentors are able to remind kids of their goals, keep them inspired about their education, help them make wise decisions and get through tough times by letting them know they aren’t alone-they have a support team.

Source:  http://yuzzip.com/technology-news/positive-texting-can-help-kids/