It’s time for a smarter conversation about social media.

Whether we like it or not, social media plays an important role in our kids’ lives. They socialize, experiment with their identities, exercise their voices, and learn about the world through photo and video sharing apps, instant messaging, and gaming chats.

It’s no wonder that we want to shield our children from harm when they are online. But when we let worries about keeping our kids safe dictate how we protect them, we can overlook teaching them the skills they need to navigate their online lives without our constant oversight.

Thumbs Down. Speak Up. (TDSU) provides you with the tools you need to set your kids up for success. With the TDSU approach, you can feel confident that your children will be armed with the skills they need to be independent and responsible users of social media.

How it Works

Thumbs Down. Speak Up. is your family’s go-to for a smarter conversation about social media. We provide the framework, time-tested teaching techniques, conversation starters, and engaging activities. You set the example, create the teachable moments, and help your children learn from their mistakes.

Thumbs Down

When and how to disengage from problematic content and behaviors.

Speak Up

Developmentally appropriate, time-tested teaching techniques to support our kids as they learn.

Don’t just follow your kids online. Lead them.
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Why TDSU?

Thumbs Down. Speak Up. (TDSU) was created by people like you – parents who want to give their kids the best possible start on social media and know that simply controlling access won’t get us there.

TDSU is:
  • Self-Guided & Easy to Use

    We’ve provided straightforward concepts and a range of activities that you can adapt to your family’s preferences – and revisit over time.

  • Designed Specifically for Preteens

    Our model taps into the developmental strengths of kids who are ready to learn the skills necessary for responsible social media use.

  • Built to Empower

    We give parents the tools to teach their kids how to be independent users of social media.

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Explore More

Learn more about our mission, founders, and the resources that have informed our approach.