Let's discuss three areas that can help you as a parent better understand and connect with you teen when it comes to using Social Media. It can be very daunting for some parents, when their children know more than they do about the Social media platforms available on the Internet and Smart phones. Here are some tips to help level the playing field.
2. Encourage boundaries using Social Media. One the the best ways to do this is to model it for your child by having boundaries on your own usage. Set an example for them and share with them what you are doing. Maybe you leave your phone outside your bedroom so as to not use it at night. Perhaps as a household you can have the rule that no cell phones are allowed at the table. Of course, one given boundary is build-in by many Social Media apps. For example, you have to be at least 13 years old to have a Facebook account. Don't allow your child to break that rule. It's there for a very good reason. Talk about Catfish accounts, fake accounts, spam posts, and the like. Pick their brain. They have probably heard about these. Make sure they are aware that not everyone are who they seem to be on the Internet.
3. Portray a positive presence. Talk with your teen the about the value of having an honest and responsible online presence. Discuss who may see your teen's profile and comments in the future (potential employee, family members, etc). Explore the topic of mental health and how comments, posts, and questions can make another person feel.
Finally, as a parent, educate yourself as to the various Social Medias that are out there. There are new ones popping up all the time so it takes some work. Google the name of it. Download the app. Make your own account. Just be wise. There are some platforms you and your teen would just be better off avoiding all together. Talk with a friend or fellow parent about various social medias and how they are used.
