Influencing our Children in their World of Social Media

The impact of social media on our lives is undeniable. With its constant stream of information and content, social media platforms are powerful tools in shaping perspectives, identities and experiences.

The digital age has also thrown a curveball at traditional parenting [1], where it is no longer just about setting curfews but guiding children through the complexities of social media use and habits [2]. As such, parents hold the key in empowering their children to navigate these platforms safely and responsibly.

Figuring out how to guide your child through the complexities of social media can feel overwhelming. But fret not, we’re here to help! TOUCH Cyber Wellness shares a guide that will equip our parents and caregivers with the tools and knowledge to influence your children in their world of social media.

AGE LIMIT OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Parents and caregivers need to be aware that major social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, require their users to be at least 13 years old. Children under 13 may not have the maturity to critically evaluate information, navigate online interactions or process upsetting content.

BENEFITS AND RISKS OF USING SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is like a window to our children’s world, offering a vast amount of information, educational content, and ways to stay connected with others. As little ones who are curious about the world, social media offers a platform for them to express themselves creatively and share their passions. However, the very nature of these platforms can pose risks. Social media thrives on curated and filtered content, which may paint an unrealistic picture of the world and fuel social comparison. In addition, our children may come across age-inappropriate content and interactions online, often without their parents' knowledge. They may not know how to handle such situations without the guidance of their parents.

TIPS FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS TO INFLUENCE CHILDREN IN THEIR WORLD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

• Fostering understanding: While completely banning social media may seem like the safest option to protect your child, fostering understanding is a more effective approach. Dedicate time to explore common platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Learn about features like blocking, reporting, and disappearing content like Instagram stories, which are popular among children and youths. Showing interest in their online world and building understanding of social media may help to strengthen trust, naturally opening the door to conversations about your child’s online experiences.
• Teaching your child to filter content: Avoid constantly monitoring your child as it may come off as intrusive. Instead, empower them to filter the content that they engage with online. Educate them on the right values and get them to reflect by asking questions such as "Does this content make you feel uncomfortable?” or “Does this promote healthy values?”. It’s important that parents take on an active role to filter online content with their children and develop their ability to practice online discernment.
• Curating content together: Don’t just react to your child’s online activity but be proactive in shaping them. Research for fun and educational online games, articles and videos. Introduce these finds to your child and spend time exploring them together. It may help your child to foster an interest for enriching online content from a young age. Some schools even offer subscriptions to platforms like KooBits that’s packed with fantastic educational resources. Check with your child if their school has a subscription!
• Teaching about privacy: Instilling online safety habits starts young. Chat with your child about personal information and why it shouldn't be shared online. Introduce the idea of online strangers and discuss the importance of caution when interacting with people they don't know in real life. Chat with your child regularly about their online experiences. Keep it light by asking questions like "What cool things did you see online today?" This opens a dialogue to address any concerns and reinforce safe practices.

The world of social media can feel like uncharted territory for both parents and children. As parents and caregivers, bridge the gap by joining your child in exploring these platforms and understanding their digital interests. Keep the lines of communication open and let your child know that they can come to you with questions or concerns any time. By fostering open communication and exploring the online world together, you can guide your child to navigate social media safely, responsibly and meaningfully.

TOUCH Cyber Wellness (TCW) is an award-winning and leading pioneer in the field of cyber wellness and new media literacy. It has spearheaded efforts to reach out to 360 schools and more than 1.6 million children, youths, parents, educators and counsellors. Through mentoring and advocacy, TCW has engaged Singapore youths to address social and behavioural issues of excessive cyber usage. It delivers a range of pre and post intervention programmes that instil the principles of good digital citizenship in the community.

Sources
1. “Parents vs Social Media: Influences on Children” Positive Parenting, 29 Feb. 2024, https://mypositiveparenting.org/2024/02/29/parents-vs-social-media-influences-on-children/
2. “A parent’s approach to social media” Families for Life, https://familiesforlife.sg/pages/article/a-parents-approach-to-social-media