Keep Your Kids Safe on Social Media
Most teens use some form of social media today, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, or all four and more. Social media can be a great place where children are entertained, engaged, and even educated. Yet, there are many risks involved with children using these sites. Kids don’t always make good choices online and this can lead to problems. Parents, take these important steps in protecting your child while they use social media.
Respect the age limit
Most social media platforms have an age limit of 13+. However, not all parents stick to this rule. If you let your child create an account with a fake birthday, they could be exposed to unsuitable advertising content. Respect the age limit and don’t let your child create an account until they are able to.
Address cyberbullying
Behind a screen, people feel that they can say what they want. Bullying can have a detrimental impact on young people, and it’s important to discourage your kids from engaging in this type of behavior. Let them know they can confide in you if anything is wrong.
Monitor screen time
Talk to your child about establishing time limits for how long they can be on social media. Letting them spend too much time online can enable them to develop an unhealthy habit. Place the tablet or computer in a public space in the home, such as the living room, so that you can keep an eye on what your child is viewing and posting.
Use privacy settings
When your child does have a social media account, make sure that it is private and that their personal information (age, address, the school they attend) cannot be seen publicly. Help your child understand how important it is they don’t accept or request to be friends they don’t personally know.
Please take note of this information and let other parents know. At Hoffman Brown Company, we’re always on the lookout for ways to stay safe. Contact us if you have any concerns or questions.
