In this modern world everyone uses social media, let it be kids, adults, or anyone else. Social media has become a major part of our lives and on the bright side, it does help us to connect with the world and keep tabs on everything that is going on. But is it really safe for kids?
In a case study it was mentioned that “According to an Pewinternet report, nowadays 95 percent of teenagers have full access to use smartphones and 45 percent of them stay online constantly” (Impact of Social Media Towards Society, A Case Study on Teenagers).
This case study was based around teenagers but even kids are actively part taking in social media. So how can parents save their kids? Because it’s true social media has its dark side and it could mess things up badly.
Just for the parents we are creating this article circling around tips to keep kids safe on social media without nosey parenting. So if you are concerned about your child, keep reading this article till the end.
Many youngsters face the brunt of social comparison on platforms like Instagram. Seeing friends, influencers, and celebs living “perfect lives” can trigger inadequacy. Your child may aim for these unrealistic portrayals. It lowers their self-esteem and body image.
Instagram is particularly notorious for fueling negative self-worth. TruLaw reveals that the culture of filters and photo editing pressures teens to emulate unattainable beauty standards. More children today are developing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and body dysmorphia. The Child Mind Institute finds that chronic social media users have a dangerously high rate of reported depression (up to 66%).
In fact, many families have connected their children’s emotional problems to Instagram and taken legal action against the platform. The Instagram lawsuit aims to compel Meta, the parent company, to set age-appropriate standards and revise doom scrolling algorithms.
Natalie Costa, a renowned parenting and kids coach, advises teaching children the unique qualities that make them special. Your kids are not defined by their looks or the things they have. They should know their contributions to the household and their peer group. For example, they may have a stellar sense of humor or a special love for Harry Potter.
Parents can work on the family’s self-esteem through affirmations and dinner-time conversations.
As a parent, your children’s privacy on social media is frustrating. When kids sign up on social media, their understanding of data sharing is vague.
Many websites collect personal details like location and browsing history. Your app interactions will be used for targeted ads and content. Such data collection has raised red flags because it makes young users vulnerable to exploitation by advertisers and cybercriminals.
While kindergarteners learn about stranger danger early in life, those lessons are forgotten in the lure of sparkling online content. One practical way to reinstate things without being “old school” is setting up devices and apps together.
Take your time to look at this graph that shows all the devices that have active internet connection used by the kids.
Instagram has launched “Teen Accounts” to cater to younger users. It is the default setting for those under 16. Such accounts will require parental approval to change restricted settings. They will also block offensive words and limit who can message your child. While configuring a new account, you can chat about why you’re restricting some features.
Another convenient idea is to install a browser extension that tracks third-party websites and the data they collect.
It was a moment ago when your little one was content stacking colorful rings on their playmat. And now, you barely see them looking up from their smartphone. It is easy to blame the current generation’s frivolity for social media addiction. However, psychologists have found the problem could be in the platform itself.
For example, Instagram uses an algorithm that prioritizes content based on engagement. So, even a short interaction with the latest gaming console can flood their stream with endless posts on this subject. You will only wonder how your child became a constant whiner for expensive gadgets.
“No more screen time!” you yell, and there’s agitated retaliation. The snarkier kids retort, “But you are always on your laptop as well! My life isn’t fair.”
The Washington Post has an excellent solution to target the problem of social media addiction. When you reduce screen time, you must substitute it with something you want to do as a family. It can be taking a nature walk adventure, a longer weekend nap, or playing Scrabble.
You can also try keeping devices away during meal times and vacations. Anyone who breaks the rule must suffer a ridiculous consequence – it can even be getting the kids extra candies on Halloween!
After all, you cannot expect much change to happen if you fall prey to the same predatory social media tactics that impact your children.
DID YOU KNOW?
Six Degree was the first ever social media which was launched in 1977!
Parenting can already be complicated, but the tech invasion isn’t helping. Despite your best efforts, it isn’t easy to balance anxiety about your littles with their need for privacy. For example, your teen daughter may resent your interest in an online flirtation or a new diet regime.
At such junctures, take heart in the inner voice you have infused in your child over time. New Scientist reports that we learn impulse control by internalizing our parents’ instructions. This inner voice becomes the checks and balances that guide decision-making, from shopping to dating.
For social media safety, try regular discussions about boundaries and limiting personal information sharing. For example, is it appropriate for kids to share their location with pals from an online community? Should they follow an extreme dieting plan before consulting a doctor?
They can be discussions you have together as a group, letting the kids feel responsible and participative in establishing rules. Over time, your children will have an inner voice that supports them throughout their lives.
Social media can connect and unify in beautiful ways. How amazing is it to find an old buddy you haven’t heard from since school? Let’s be honest: as a mum or dad, you probably enjoy the internet as much as your brood. Like a lot else in life, setting a balance and keeping yourself safe are challenges you must navigate as a team.
Internet Writer
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