TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA

The American Psychological Association (APA) has released its inaugural set of guidelines aimed at teenage social media use. These recommendations consist of ten key points that address children’s online and offline well-being, targeting kids, parents, platform developers, and policymakers. Among the suggestions are limiting social media usage to approximately an hour before bedtime to ensure it doesn't disrupt sleep or physical activity, adapting social media platforms and features to align with young users' age and developmental capabilities, and minimizing exposure to online hate and risky behaviours like self-harm. Though seemingly basic, these guidelines provide practical solutions to a problem often perceived as unsolvable, according to Don Grant, national advisor of healthy device management at Newport Healthcare and former president of the APA's Society for Media Psychology & Technology division. Grant emphasizes that social media when approached with appropriate safeguards, can serve as a means of connection rather than a destructive and addictive force for young individuals.

While it may appear challenging for parents to balance a comprehensive list of guidelines while respecting their child's privacy, there are several straightforward strategies that can assist families in fostering healthy online habits that align with multiple guidelines. Here are some ways parents can support their children in establishing positive social media practices.

Don’t make your kid go it alone

Being an example is crucial. Don Grant suggests that parents need to embody the behaviour they desire to see in their children. It's important to initiate conversations about shared family values and discuss how these principles can be effectively reflected in online interactions.

Another effective approach to encouraging teenagers to evaluate their relationship with social media and potentially establish new boundaries is to involve other parents and families in the process. Grant emphasizes that it can be challenging for teens to commit to healthy behaviours and habits if they feel isolated or left out. He advises parents not to tackle this task alone, as their child might question why the rules only apply to them. By engaging other parents and families, a supportive network can be created, ranging from a close-knit group of best friends to an entire school community. Grant even suggests incorporating these guidelines into the curriculum as part of teaching digital literacy in schools.

Educate kids early

One of the newly introduced guidelines by the APA emphasizes the importance of educating children about the various types of threats they may encounter online, such as misinformation, bullying, and hate speech, even before they embark on their initial online experiences. Parents are encouraged to exercise their own judgment in determining the appropriate age and timing for these discussions, as well as when to allow their children to start using social media platforms. Unlike the first generation of digital natives, who ventured into the online world without any training or forewarning, today's parents have the opportunity to proactively inform their children about specific risks present in the online environment. A comprehensive social media introduction should cover subjects like data privacy, the lasting impact of online posts, methods for identifying misinformation, and the significance of avoiding comparisons with others' online personas.

Look for patterns

While the guidelines suggest that parents should monitor their chil- dren's social media usage during early adolescence, typically between the ages of 10 and 14, it is also essential to recognize the need for privacy and autonomy as kids grow older. Instead of resorting to intrusive surveillance, parents can gain insights into their children's well-being by closely observing their behavior. Don Grant advises that by paying attention to their child's nonverbal cues while they engage with social media, parents can assess its impact on them. Signs such as frequent frowning, rapid finger movements, or any indications of stress or distress should not be ignored. If a child's mood worsens after using social media, it is important for parents to address the issue. Grant suggests initiating conversations with children about how specific platforms, pages, or experiences are affecting their emotions. As parents, it is crucial to act as supportive guardrails, guiding and protecting their children in the digital realm.

Don’t paint social media as all bad

According to Don Grant, social media offers teenagers numerous opportunities for self-expression.

This is particularly significant for individuals belonging to marginalized groups who may feel limited in their ability to establish connections and networks within their local communities. As a parent, it is important to support the positive experiences your children have on social media while ensuring they maintain healthy habits.

Part of maintaining this balance, as Grant suggests, involves ensuring that children do not spend an excessive and unhealthy amount of time online. It is also essential for them to have a clear understanding of what they hope to achieve from each session or interaction.

Grant recommends a reflective exercise for both kids and adults: before posting anything, ask yourself, "What is your goal? What do you want people to know?" By understanding the motivations and desires that drive your online activity, you can identify any patterns of unhealthy engagement.

By encouraging thoughtful reflection and awareness of their online intentions, parents can help their children develop healthier and more purposeful social media habits.