Are you worried that your child is getting distracted by social media? Read on to learn how to consciously use it for your child’s betterment.
The Positive Impact of Social Media on Different Age Groups
Social media can positively influence a child’s life when used for the right purpose.
Better Lifestyle: According to research on brain development in 9 and 10-year-olds, children of this age who had access to social media were observed to have increased physical activity, decreased family conflict, and fewer sleep problems. It can help young teens make friends globally and share their interests with like-minded people.
Developing New Habits: Social media can foster new habits in children. By restricting screen time, children can learn self-control and discipline. Exposure to artists and creators on social platforms can inspire them and provide a platform to refine their skills (such as research, collaboration, active listening, and creative output) even during leisure hours. Following social pages, joining groups, and participating in online events can help children discover new interests and hobbies.
As one of the best schools in Bangalore, Ekya Schools encourages students to leverage social media for learning, connecting, and developing positive habits.
The Negative Impact of Social Media and How to Overcome It
While social media offers many benefits, children must also be prepared to handle its negative aspects. Cyberbullying and privacy breaches are significant concerns. According to data from Enough is Enough, an organization focused on internet safety, one in three people experiences online bullying. Here are a few measures that both parents and students can adopt to stay on the productive side of social media.
Reporting Bullies: Children must be taught to recognize online trolls and not internalize their comments. Encourage children to report accounts associated with bullying or impersonation.
Protecting Privacy: Privacy invasion is another significant risk. Children should learn to safeguard their personal information online. Parents can teach them to use two-step authentication, choose strong alphanumeric passwords, and frequently update them. Before introducing children to social media, discuss the type of content they can share and the importance of using privacy settings. Conversations about the dangers of oversharing, cyberbullying, and hate speech are crucial.
Restricting Social Media Access: Parents must monitor their children’s social media usage. Excessive internet time can affect physical and mental health. Transparent discussions about their online experiences will help parents understand social media’s impact on their children’s behavior and interactions with strangers.
Starting Conversations About Online Bullying: Children should understand the emotional toll of cyberbullying on both victims and bullies. Victims need reassurance, support, and acknowledgment to cope with the trauma. Juvenile bullies should also receive counseling and guidance to understand the effects of their actions. Ekya Schools, recognized as one of the best international schools in Bangalore, provides counseling, peer support, and open communication to preserve students’ mental health.
Online Gaming – Do’s and Don’ts: For online gaming, parents should ensure that children only purchase and play games with parental approval. Monitoring gaming time and separating it from homework and offline activities is essential.
Recognizing Warning Signs: Children might not always share their negative social media experiences due to guilt or embarrassment. Parents must watch for behavioral changes such as disinterest in studies, distancing from friends, gloominess, or insomnia. Building trust and open communication with children encourages them to discuss problems.
The Role of Schools in Spreading Awareness
Using social media is not inherently harmful; understanding its positive and negative impacts is vital. Social media is an integral part of this generation’s lifestyle. Online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted its value, enabling students to continue their education remotely.
At Ekya Schools, one of the best schools in Bangalore, we integrate digital literacy into our curriculum, emphasizing the safe and productive use of technology. Through workshops, classroom discussions, and interactive activities, we educate students about cyber threats, online etiquette, and mental well-being in the digital age.
Conclusion
While social media is embedded in daily life, parents play a vital role in guiding children toward responsible usage. Monitoring social media activity, fostering open discussions, and raising awareness about cyberbullying are essential steps.
Schools also contribute by generating awareness about cyber threats and promoting safe online practices. As one of the best international schools in Bangalore, Ekya Schools remains dedicated to mentoring students and ensuring they navigate the virtual world safely.
Click here to learn more about how Ekya Schools prioritize student well-being through technology and education.