Keeping Children Safe on Social Media: What Parents Should Know
Social media is widely used among teenagers. According to the Pew Research Center, 58% of American teens use TikTok daily, and 17% describe their TikTok use as almost constant. About half of teens use Snapchat and Instagram daily. However, this widespread usage raises concerns about the impact of social media among parents and teens.
Deciding the right age for children to join social media is a debated topic. The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, enacted in 2000, prohibits collecting personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. However, this law does not cover other risks in today’s social media environment, such as bullying, harassment, and psychological issues. Social media expert Christine Elgersma states, “13 is not the best age for children to join social media,” emphasizing that platforms should be designed with children in mind.
While some parents prefer to keep their children away from social media, others adopt a gradual approach to prepare their children for it. Experts suggest that children need guidance to learn how to navigate the social media world safely. Natalie Bazarova from the Cornell Social Media Lab says, “You can’t expect children to jump into the social media world and learn to swim on their own.” Parents are encouraged to have open discussions with their children about the content they see on social media.
Taking children’s phones away overnight can effectively limit screen time. Research indicates that children need breaks from screens, and parents need to help with this. Additionally, parents should reflect on their phone usage habits. It is important to indicate that the phone is being used for work or other important tasks when using it in front of children. Social media platforms like Meta offer tools that allow parents to monitor and set limitations on their children’s accounts. However, using these features requires approval from both parents and children.
As concerns about the impact of social media on children grow, it is crucial for parents to adopt an informed approach. Monitoring children’s social media use, providing guidance, and setting appropriate boundaries can help keep teens safe online. By guiding their children in social media use, parents can protect them from the risks of the online world and ensure a healthier and safer digital experience.