When should kids have their own devices or social media accounts?
The question of when or if children should have their own devices or social media accounts is often controversial, but it really is a family decision. However, if students are going to use devices, then it’s important to set guidelines for their use including screen time limits, app installation, etc. Common Sense Media offers a Family Media Agreement and Device Contract template on their website – it’s worth checking out.
Because of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) most sites restrict access to those under 13, meaning you must be 13 or older to use their apps, but this is hard to regulate. A few apps have higher age limits based on site content, and it is important to read the Acceptable Use Policy and Data Privacy Policy when making these types of decisions.
According to Common Sense Media, “If your kid is expressing interest in joining a social network, discuss the pros and cons and do your own research so you fully understand the implications of joining a particular network.”
Some tips to consider: Use and frequently check privacy settings, be a friend and follower of your child’s social media account to help guide them, keep private information safe (see previous column on Data Privacy), be respectful of others (source: Common Sense Media). It is also important to talk about not using social media as a source of their identity (i.e. more “Likes” means I’m a good person, etc.).
Another conversation to have with students is the importance of thinking through what they are posting (and commenting), or “pause before they post.” A few years ago, Jostens Publishing came up with classroom posters that posed these questions:
Who will be able to see what I post? (privacy settings)
Will anyone be embarrassed or hurt by it?
What will my family or teachers say if they see what I post?
How will I feel if the head of my dream job or school sees what I post?
How would I feel if what I post is all over the news?
Am I proud of what I am posting?
Do I have a clear conscience about what I’m posting?
How would I feel if someone posted this about me? (source: Jostens)
Many jobs and college admission offices are now including social media in their consideration of a candidate, so it’s more important than ever for students to put their best foot forward when using social media.
Parents are encouraged to do their own research, but Common Sense Media has a website and app that will give you reviews of everything from apps to movies to help you navigate this still new parenting realm.
