The Truth About Kids, Social Media and How to Keep Them Safe Online
Who would have thought we’d live in a time where a pocket-sized device could instantly connect us with people all over the world? It’s amazing to see how quickly social media has become an integral part of everyday life, offering instant communication, easy access to information, and endless learning opportunities. That said, the digital world does have a darker side that parents need to be aware of. At Briarcliff Pediatrics, keeping your child safe and healthy is our top priority, and that includes online safety.
Social Media and Body Goals:
Today’s youth are constantly bombarded with an unrealistic body image that is negatively impacting their self-esteem. In an attempt to achieve ultimate body goals, they are embracing extreme diets, developing eating disorders, and engaging in excessive workouts. Despite their best efforts, achieving their perfect body always seems just out of reach, simply because the standard is unattainable. Here are some steps you can take to combat unrealistic body image standards:
- Review fitness and body goal images with your child, showing them how lighting and angles create unrealistic appearances.
- Discuss the use of programs like Facetune, Photoshop, and other editing apps used by influencers to dramatically alter their images.
- Teach your kids that a healthy diet doesn’t involve starving oneself but instead consists of eating a healthy portion of protein, fruits, vegetables, and grains.
- Help your child build a well-rounded fitness routine for kids, and suitable for their age, weight, and height.
Social Media and Online Strangers:
Many parents reading this probably grew up during the era of “stranger danger.” The rules were simple back then: don’t talk to strangers, don’t accept candy from strangers, and never get into a stranger’s car. Now you’re parenting your own child, and the rules have changed. Warnings about talking with strangers and getting into cars with strangers are commonplace. Unfortunately, predators know this and utilize social media apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook to prey upon children. As a parent, it is important that you remain vigilant and regularly communicate with your child about these dangers. Here are some steps you can take to keep your child safe as they communicate online:
- First and foremost, regularly reassure your child that they can talk to you about anything. Create an environment where they feel safe telling you about the things they see online – especially if those things make them uncomfortable.
- Educate your child on how predators target children and the tactics they use. Talking with strangers online may be commonplace, but that doesn’t mean everyone is safe to chat with. Teach your child to use discernment when forming online friendships and never to share personal information like their full name or home address.
- Regularly monitor and review your child’s device usage. Check text messages, DM’s, search history, photos, and app usage.
- If your child is targeted with predatory messages or images, do not respond to the bad actor. Instead, take screenshots, document your findings, and involve local or federal authorities.
The best tool you have when it comes to encouraging online safety is communication. Having regular conversations with your child will provide them with guidance on how to interact with the digital world. And remember, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s online habits, please don’t hesitate to contact our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Raymond Deeb, Dr. Rebecca McCoy, or Dr. Nicholas Kelly. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for practice updates and health tips.
