"I only listen to it for the beat..."  "but it's the clean version, so it's ok..."  "It's just a song, it's not like it's going to affect me..."

confession... these are all quotes from ME when I was a teen trying to justify the purchase of the most popular rock, alternative, rap and metal cds of the late 90s.  Truth is, your students are far more exposed to the readily available media influences than I ever was as a youth.  Any song, video, or website at the push of a button on a handheld device is a far cry from my original desktop computer that took up half of a room and had a blazing fast 56k modem.  Studies show that music is the fastest growing and most powerful media influence on todays youth, as the average teen listens to nearly 2 1/2 hours of music everyday.  Do you think it's possible to have that kind of exposure and not be affected by the content?  check out this video, from the mouth of a 13 year old girl. 

It was actually pretty easy for my parents to monitor what I listened to because I had to come back from the store with a physical copy of a cd and a receipt, and they could check for things like parental advisory stickers, or even read lyrics directly from the cd cover.  But with digital downloads and personal devices for listening, where does it leave you with your teen? Jonathan McKee is a youth pastor, author, youth culture expert, and parent of teenagers.  Rather than give you my genuine, but inexperienced take on parenting teens, I thought I'd point you to some of Jonathan's thoughts on this hot topic issue.   In this two part article, Jonathan covers every #1 single from 2011's billboard charts.  The information and thoughts included here are from a parent, just like you... in the trenches daily trying to raise Godly teenagers.  this is a bit long, but VERY worth the time spent reading. 

Part 1

Part 2

So what are you doing to help your student navigate some of these sensitive issues during some of the most important formative years of their lives?  share a comment below if you have something that's working that other parents might want to try. 

If you receive any encouragement from this post, video or articles, please hear the plea of a 13 year old girl that I believe rings true with your teen as well.  Be the Parent.  Have the tough conversations.  Keep communication open, and Your kids will grow into the young adults that God desires them to be.  You are all in my prayers as we walk this road together. 

blessings,

Cliff <><