Social Media Safety Assembly Brings Powerful Lessons to Hartford School

Students at Hartford School recently participated in two dynamic school presentations focused on digital and social media safety. Professional school speaker and edutainer Robert Hackenson Jr. delivered these high-energy assemblies to fifth and sixth graders.

The presentations were made possible through the generous support of the Tigger Stavola Foundation. Their commitment helped bring meaningful prevention education directly to students and families.

Robert designed each presentation specifically for upper elementary students. During the presentation he addressed real challenges students face every day online.

These upper elementary digital safety presentations delivered education with energy and purpose. They created meaningful impact at Hartford School. Students gained knowledge, confidence, and practical strategies.

Screen Time and Mental Health

One major focus involved the connection between screen time and mental health. Students learned how excessive screen use can increase stress and emotional fatigue. Robert explained why screens should never interfere with sleep. He stressed the importance of daily physical activity and encouraged regular face-to-face interaction with friends. Students learned that technology should support life, not replace it. Healthy balance remains essential for learning and emotional growth.

Communication in Digital World

Robert also discussed online communication challenges. Texting and posting remove tone, facial expressions, and context. As a result, misunderstandings can escalate quickly online.
Students learned why pausing before responding matters.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying prevention played a central role in both presentations. Robert explained what cyberbullying looks like in real situations. He shared clear steps students can take keep their power instead of giving it to the person bullying. Students learned when and how to ask trusted adults for help.

Digital Wellness Resources for Parents

Online Safety

Online safety remained another critical topic. Robert warned students about the dangers of talking with strangers online. He discussed how if anyone is asking personal questions, asking for photos, or asking to meet up in person, tell an adult.

Digital Reputation

Lastly, Robert focused on digital reputation. He explained how every post represents the student and their community. That includes family, school, teams, and organizations. Deleting content does not erase impact. And even though you think you can delete it, screenshots and shares can make posts permanent.

Robert encouraged students to pause before posting. He asked them to imagine everyone seeing the message forever. This simple rule resonated strongly with students. Each social media safety assembly included magic and visual illusions. These moments captured attention and increased message retention. Students stayed engaged while learning serious topics. The illusions made lessons memorable and fun.

Continued Community Support

The Tigger Stavola Foundation also provided additional resources. Parents can find the link here on this page. Thanks to their community support, students learned skills that last far beyond the classroom.

Parents can also watch recordings of both presentations. The videos remain available for the next 60 days. Families can access them using the school-provided code. This access helps parents reinforce lessons at home.