The world of social media surrounds our children. Kids are super curious and when they hear about a new site or tool they want to find out what it’s all about. It can be exciting for a child to enter into a social network. They are going to try things out, so it’s important to acknowledge that interest with your children and be involved with what they view. I have a daughter who is 11 years old. The lure of social media and being connected to her friends has become of recent interest to her. I am very protective of my daughter, but want to allow her to learn in a safe environment. As a parent I think it’s very important to have open dialogue with her as she explores social media sites. There are some sites I won’t let her register for, but others she has tested out. I am very involved with watching and asking questions about what she is involved with. Parents are very aware of the danger that lurks in these sites. So it is very important to talk to your kids about privacy and creating online identities. Sit down with your children and ask questions!
Here are some questions you can ask your kids:
Why are you interested in social media sites?
How would you respond if a stranger tried to contact you through an online site?
What would you do if you found out that one of your friends was talking to strangers online?
What did you do/share on social media today?
Do you know that you can go to an adult for help if something makes you uncomfortable online?
It’s important to get your kids to talk about their social media lives just so you know what they are doing. Today it seems many tweens and teens may be more digitally savvy than their parents , however their lack of maturity and life experience can get them into trouble on these social venues. So be involved with your children, don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Don't forget that Kids Email is one of the best ways to get your kids started online!
Jennifer McDonnow is the Administrative Assistant at KidsEmail.org. She is the content writer of Kids Email blog and helps manage their social media accounts. Being a mom of two, she finds it important to provide helpful content to other parents in hopes to help in keeping more kids safe online.
