Hey Moms and Dads,
Keeping up with every changing technology is a challenge parents of the past simply didn't need to worry about. Bob Dylan told us the times they are a changing and he wasn't joking.
I know you all know what Facebook is, but here are a few things you might want to think about.
1. Security is more than privacy settings.
As minors I highly recommend that they set their privacy settings strictly so only their friends have access to their wall, photos and information, but there's a bigger issue I'm concerned about.
Status Updates. Here is a status update I see A LOT, "Home alone." "No ones home and I'm bored." "Parents are gone and there's nothing to eat." All of these seem harmless, but broadcasting you are home alone isn't the wisest move. Addresses are only a google search away. Talk to you students about what information they let out onto the web, even info that seems harmless.
2. Students need parents online.
My parents were everywhere growing up. Mom was at school volunteering with the PTA, Dad was at our ball games coaching and both of them where at Church as youth leaders. I couldn't go anywhere without them and now that I'm an adult I'm thankful for it. I needed them there. There to watch out for me, there to correct me, and there to keep an eye on things.
The internet is the same way. Your kids NEED you there. Sure they'll whine and complain about it, but they need to know you're there. They need you encourage them when they post encouragement to others. They need your correction when they lose their cool and post something they shouldn't. And they need you to watch out for people that might not have their best interest in mind.
3. Talk about it.
Facebook can be a great in for you as a parent. Talk about their pictures, what people are saying and what your child thinks about the conversations and status updates in front of them. My parents always used my friends as case studies on what to do and what not to do. You've literally got an endless supply of examples in front of you. Use them!
If you've got any tips, tricks or advice about social media please post it in the comments. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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