Thursday, September 11, 2025
Students may have either seen troubling content online or had conversations about the content. Moments like these can stir up confusion, fear, or even numbness. While you can’t control everything your student sees or hears, you can walk with them through it. As a church, we want to equip you with scripture and practical tools to help point your student back to the hope we have in Christ.
Acknowledge the Moment
If your student has seen troubling content online or had conversations about the content this week, start by naming it with them. Let them know it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or even frightened. You don’t need to have all the answers—simply sit with them, listen, and remind them you’re there to walk through it together.
Conversation Starters
- “There have been some troubling videos online, along with some challenging conversations. What have you seen or heard about what’s going on?”
- “How did it make you feel when you saw it? How did it make your friends feel?”
- “What do you wish adults understood about what it’s like to see things like this online?”
- “Where do you think God is in all of this?”
Tip: Listen more than you talk. Don’t rush to fix—be a safe space.
Keep the Focus on Christ
Remind your student that no matter what’s happening in the world, Jesus is our anchor:
- “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
Encourage prayer together—even short prayers asking for peace, clarity, and comfort.
Share verses of hope:
- “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
- “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
- “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
- “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8
Take time to slow down and listen to worship music. Here’s a playlist: CedarCreek Worship Music
Signs a Student Might Need More Support
- Withdrawal from friends or activities
- Increased irritability or outbursts
- Sleep or appetite changes
- Big questions about death, safety, or purpose
- Talk of hopelessness or self-harm
If these signs show up, please don’t carry it alone. Here’s our Counseling Referral List.
Technology Guidance
- Acknowledge reality: Your student will see things you’d rather they didn’t.
- Set rhythms: Encourage breaks from scrolling, especially when emotions feel heavy.
- Co-view when possible: Sit down together and discuss what they’re encountering.
- Equip them to filter: Talk about what content brings peace vs. what stirs anxiety.
How Parents Can Care for Themselves:
- Don’t feel pressured to have the “perfect” response.
- Share with a trusted friend or small group what you’re processing.
- Take your own breaks from overwhelming media.
Additional Resources:
You don’t have to solve this for your student. You only need to walk alongside them. Your presence, honesty, and steady faith in Jesus are the most powerful gifts you can give.
It’s also important for students to know their concerns are heard. Encourage them to connect with their Student Director or email us anytime at students@cedarcreek.tv.