awesomescopeSocial media can feel like a tough mindfield to get through, but there’s a lot to prepare you and your child for. There’s the act of being respectful online, learning to be kind, knowing what constitutes bullying, and also knowing where there could be a scam.
To help your child learn about the world of social media, here are some ways to help that one of the top boarding schools in the UK recommends.
Talk about positive and negative online behaviour
A lot of what you’ll show your child will include what they know about the internet already. Talking to strangers online is a big risk and shouldn’t be encouraged, and so the same will apply in the world of social media. It’s much easier to reach a complete stranger through social platforms.
That said, your child can also be the person behaving poorly online. Your child should be aware of what constitutes good behaviour when talking to friends and family online. And to not act like the person they wouldn’t be like when in the real world.
Make your child aware of bullies
Bullying happens very often online. With the disguise of hiding behind a persona people can feel more in charge when they talk to others. This is where bullying becomes commonplace; your child needs to be aware of what can be seen as harmful behaviour that can directly impact anyone. Tell them what they should do, and turn to you for help if they feel like they are being bullied online.
Cater what you teach your child to the social networks they use
These days, with the abundance of different social platforms out there, children will opt to use particular ones. Your child may prefer to use video-based platforms as opposed to ones that require them to write their thoughts out. Use this to guide your child through these platforms and how they can browse safely.
