Understanding and managing your children’s use of social media can feel overwhelming. Deciding how and when to allow them to use these platforms is a personal choice. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office has compiled information to help families make informed decisions.
A social media platform is any internet-based platform that allows users to interact, create, share or exchange information with others. Common social media platforms for children include TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, BeReal and even certain gaming communities, such as Roblox and Minecraft.
According to the new AG’s publication, Social Media Pointers for Parents, there are five fundamental action steps parents can take:
Start and maintain an open dialogue. Have open and honest discussions with your children about their use of social media, including which platforms they currently have or want to use. Discuss your expectations as a parent and explain the controls and limits you will be setting. Encourage your children to tell you immediately if something happens that makes them feel uncomfortable or puts them in danger.
Learn about the social media platforms your children use. The more you know about each social media platform, the better you’ll understand how the platform operates and what potential dangers, risks and challenges exist.
Follow age requirements and guidelines. Many social media platforms have age limits for joining; some may offer a version for kids that has stricter privacy and messaging settings.
Help set and monitor privacy settings. Privacy settings, which control what others can see about a user, are especially important for children. Many apps default to public profiles or public sharing; consider changing these settings to private. Talk to your children about the importance of not revealing personal information in posts and user profiles, including photos that may contain identifiable information.
Understand how technology can help you. Devices and user accounts generally have various permission levels. For example, you might be able to set controls so your child cannot download an app without your permission. Private content filters also exist that give parents the ability to control content or apps, set privacy rules, limit screen time and more.
It’s essential that parents and children understand the social media platforms they’re using. Families should talk openly about how children should use the platforms and how to report inappropriate behavior. Also, consider setting rules in your house about where your children are allowed to have their devices and how many hours per day (and which hours) your children can be on their devices.
For additional resources, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers free online publications to help keep kids safe online.
For more general cybersecurity tips, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov and review the Cybersecurity Help, Information and Protection Program (CHIPP) booklet.