Children share insightful opinions on viral trends at SCRF
In an interactive session, children in the 9-12 group told the family counsellor and author that they consumed content predominantly on Tiktok and YouTube. Younus shared a viral and dangerous video on a salt and ice challenge to help children comprehend the perils of blindly following influencers who promoted content for views and money. She apprised them against positive and negative imitation. 'Ask yourself if a video is safe, is it responsible, will it harm me or anyone?' pointed out the trainer.
She asked them how they would differentiate between negative and positive trends and how such content affects viewers. They replied any content that affected one's physical or mental health would be considered negative; if it affected others too, it was a good reason not to follow it or make it trending. Some of them replied that they would delete a harmful video or not follow a creator who relayed dangerous content.
Others said that they would not let negative comments about content they create affect their mental peace or self-esteem. Such negative experiences will also keep them away from social media, some postulated. They also suggested the need to improve self-esteem so that trends did not affect them.
When asked what positive trend suggestions could be, they suggested videos on how to pray, how to make handmade craft, on recycling, healthy food, and the like.
Taking place from April 23 to May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, the 16th edition of SCRF promises an immersive experience under the theme 'Dive into Books'. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this year's agenda features 133 guests from 70 countries, and 122 Arab and international publishing houses from 22 nations.
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