Episode Summary: In this episode of The YouSchool Podcast, Scott Schimmel dives into the challenges kids face today around feeling seen, valued, and genuinely connected. Growing up in a world driven by social media, kids often receive “false positives” (temporary boosts of validation) or “false negatives” (feelings of rejection) that leave them questioning their value. Scott shares three foundational ways parents can communicate unconditional love and genuine regard to their kids: by lighting up when they see them, showing curiosity, and mirroring back their value. Discover how to create a solid foundation that helps kids feel like they matter—regardless of social media validation—and sets them up for a lifetime of confidence, happiness, and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

The difference between solitude and loneliness and how mattering is essential for self-worth.
How social media creates “false positives” and “false negatives” that can impact kids’ mental health.
Three powerful strategies to show kids they matter: light up when you see them, be curious about their lives, and mirror back their value.
Chapters:

[00:02] Introduction: Scott reflects on his own teenage years and feelings of loneliness.
[01:10] Social Media and Validation: Exploring how false positives and false negatives impact kids’ self-worth.
[02:44] The Gray Kid Phenomenon: Why the “kids in the middle” often feel overlooked and unnoticed.
[05:09] Creating a Home Base: How parents can provide unconditional love and a safe space for kids.
[06:20] Three Ways to Communicate Mattering: Lighting up, showing curiosity, and mirroring value.
[07:31] Closing Remarks: Encouraging parents to support their kids’ foundational need to feel valued.