Social Media Platforms

Although there are many platforms accessible to children today, offenders have reportedly contacted or directed children to use the following most often: social networking (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), messaging (Snapchat, Kik), video programs (Music.ly, Skype, webcam sites), and dating platforms (Hot or Not, Tinder). Reported cases of video sharing social media platforms (Vine, Tumblr) and gaming systems are on the rise, as well.

Many social media platforms are difficult for parents to regulate for their child’s use. Most do have registration-related age restrictions and are truly designed for adults as content is not moderated, but sometimes verification is simply a check mark. Tech savvy children are navigating them to meet new people, near and far.

Now what?

Educate yourself first. Technology is ever-changing so parents must stay educated as new platforms become available. If you don’t know everything about the platform, your child should not be using it.

Be the parent. Approve every platform prior to download or use. Access friend lists with them and make sure they know each “friend.”

Communicate. Have an agreement with your children that they can come to you regarding their accounts, no matter the situation, without punishment.

Set restrictions on cell phones and check them regularly. Add filters to Internet access and apply application privacy settings.

Teach children how to self-monitor and the dangers of over-sharing on any platform.

Navigating new and improved technology can be scary, but it doesn’t need to be. We can help children be smart and safely navigate social media.

To learn more about children and social media add the App Savvy issue to your MASK Library

MASK the Parenting Magazine a quarterly publication providing solutions for Today’s Families.

The parenting manual offering solutions to the modern-day challenges families face. From Pre-K

through College stay up to date on the modern day issues families face.

Are you up to date on the issues your child is facing?

MASK Mothers Awareness on School-age Kids offers parenting solutions for today’s families. MASK tackles important topics – from drugs and alcohol to bullying and Internet safety -and gives students, parents and the community the knowledge and tools to manage these potential challenges.

Subscribe today! https://www.tools4teaching.com/product/mask-the-magazine/