Our children are exposed to the digital world, and as they become more tech-savvy, it becomes essential for parents to protect them by maintaining some restrictions to make their online experience safer.
Just as you love joining online mom groups to connect with other mothers, the active participation of teens on various social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat is a fun way for them to make new friends. While they can instantaneously connect with people worldwide, they can also come with several risks. If your child misuses the internet, they might have to face serious consequences. Here are some dos and don’ts that you can teach your teens before they venture into the world of social media.
Do set some time limits.
If your teens spend too much time on social media, it might become an addiction. You must set some rules and time limits on the use of social media sites. Do not permit them to use their tablets, laptop, or smartphones in their bedroom. Warn them about virtual imposters and cyber crimes and ask them not to put up everything on their social media accounts. Discuss the pros and cons of online friendships with them.
Check your teen’s privacy settings.
After your child creates a social media account, you should remain vigilant and check their privacy settings from time to time. Various social media sites frequently add new security settings to ensure maximum protection for their users, but sometimes the privacy settings call for a manual update by the user.
Ask them to maintain a private profile.
Most social media sites will give you a choice to make your account private. It will ensure that only selected people - who your child has added will have access to their account and the content they share. This step is crucial to keep their content private and away from people who may misuse it.
Ask your teens to post positive content online.
Teach your children to spread positivity through inspirational quotes online, rather than ranting about homework or school. Ranting online can get your child into trouble. Their classmates may complain about your child’s online activities to their teachers.
Help them pick a strong password.
Help your child pick a strong password to prevent their accounts from getting hacked. Teach them how strong passwords are created using symbols, letters and numbers to keep their account safe and secure.
Finally, you must ask them to approach you immediately if someone is harassing or bothering them online so that you can take the necessary actions.
