How To Keep Your Kids Safe on Social Media
Social media has exploded in recent years. From the evolution of Myspace to TikTok - it’s come a long way. Millennials were one of the last generations to have a childhood where this was still in its early existence. As for Gen Z’s, that’s all they’ve known. So, with new technology giving us new ways to communicate, comes new problems.
In the last year, we have turned to social media more than ever because of COVID-19. It has allowed us to stay connected with friends and family when we haven’t been able to see them. However, for kids and teens, they may experience a different side of social media as it can pose a threat on mental health from online bullying or incite a negative self-image.
A survey by the Australian Psychological Association (2017) found that adolescents spend 3.3 hours a day on social media, with some logging on as many as 50 times per day. The survey found high use of social media and technology impacts self-esteem, with two in three adolescents feeling pressure to look a certain way.
How do we ensure our kids stay safe whilst on social media platforms? It can be challenging, as parents want their children to know they are trusted but also want to ensure they are staying safe. As a parent it is important that you know what your child does online. Below are some points on starting conversations with our children regarding social media:
Be open, and non-judgmental.
Have an open and non-judgmental conversation with your child and ask why they are using social media.
Ask questions!
Be interested in which apps they use. The more interested we are in knowing what they are doing, the more open they may feel they can be with us.
Talk to your kids about positive and negative online behavior.
Providing education to your children on how they should interact online is important. Teach them what language is appropriate, how to speak to someone else, as well as discussing what online bullying is.
Set limits.
Set time limits on how long they are allowed to be on social media. Different age groups would have more or less limits online.
Finally… Practice what you preach!
This is really Important. It is important that we practice positive behavior on social media so as our kids are able to learn from us.
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