In the current digital age, many families have tween and teenage children who spend significant periods of time on social media websites and mobile devices. While these outlets can be asset to children's social lives, they can also do more harm than good. Many parents are weary of enforcing heavy social media and cell phone monitoring because of the endless arguments that will result. However, doing nothing and letting tweens and teens have complete freedom is not the answer either. How do you find a balance? Consider creating an open environment for communication and compromise in which you and your children can discuss healthy limits and rules. The following tips will help you with this process.
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When can a child join Facebook? The minimum age for creating a Facebook account is 13. However, there is no way for Facebook to enforce this policy as people can lie about their birthdays when they create accounts. As a parent, it can be tough to stand up against the growing pressure that "everyone" at school has a Facebook account, even in 4th or 5th grade. If your child is adamant about joining Facebook before age 13, have a discussion with him or her about why Facebook creates this minimum age and why you believe that it is important. Your child may still be upset about not getting an account, but in time he or she will appreciate your honesty.
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What limits should be set on privacy settings? Facebook and Internet browsers are equipped with privacy settings. As a parent, it is important to review these settings and determine what limits are appropriate for your particular household. There is no magic combination that will work for every family. Instead of setting privacy limits without your children's knowledge, be honest with them about their options online. Many mobile devices are also equipped with cell phone monitoring capacity. If you are not familiar with these options, talk to your cell phone provider and fellow parents before you purchase a mobile device for your tween or teen.
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Is a parental intelligence system appropriate? Some parents opt to purchase parental intelligence systems for Internet and cell phone monitoring. Some software allows for extremely close monitoring, such as viewing the exact keys that were typed, the time that was spent online, and a log of all computer activity. Again, as a parent, you must decide if this is an appropriate option for your family. Some children are very forthright with their online and mobile activity and may not require such measures.
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How can you manage social media and cell phone monitoring with ease? One of the most successful measures for managing your monitoring is learning your child's routines. This includes the times that he uses his computer and mobile device, the sites and applications that he frequents, and any other components that are part of his regular technology routine, such as listening to music online. It is easier to spot a potential problem when you are familiar with normal activity.
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Should you set ground rules? Absolutely. It is definitely a good idea to set ground rules for social and mobile use for any family. Tweens and teens will be more appreciative of rules if parents are upfront about the personal expectations for the entire family and stick to them as well. For example, a family may come to the consensus that no one is allowed to send text messages during family meals. Parents can start by setting the example and upholding this rule themselves.
Looking for a way to keep your family safe and responsible at home? Read our eBook for rules and tips: “15 Digital Safety Rules Every Household Should Follow.”
