Social Media Safety Tips
Social Media Tips for Parents
It’s undeniable that social media is an integral part of our children's lives. While it offers many benefits, it also poses unique challenges and risks. At Fort Smith Public Schools, we are committed to helping parents ensure that their children are safe online. The FSPS Police Department offers these tips to help you guide and protect your child as they navigate social media.
Key Tips for Parents
Open Communication
Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their social media use. Regularly ask your child about platforms they use, who they interact with, and what content they share. This ongoing dialogue fosters trust and awareness.
Educate About Privacy
Teach your child about the importance of privacy. Ensure their profiles are set to private and personal information isn't visible. Remind them to avoid sharing information like their location, phone number, and address.
Monitor Activity
While respecting your child’s privacy, stay involved by periodically checking their social media activity. Be alert for signs of cyberbullying or any unusual interactions that could indicate potential risks.
Set Clear Boundaries
Establish rules for social media usage, such as time limits and guidelines on appropriate content. Make sure your child understands the potential consequences of sharing inappropriate or hurtful material.
Foster Critical Thinking
Teach your child to question the authenticity of information online and to be cautious of strangers who may attempt to connect with them. Help them recognize red flags and think carefully before engaging with unknown users.
Encourage Positive Online Behavior
Remind your child that kindness and respect are essential online as well as offline. Explain that their digital footprint is permanent and can impact their future opportunities.
Stay Informed
Social media trends and associated risks change rapidly. Keep yourself informed about new platforms, features, and potential dangers to provide relevant guidance to your child.
Utilize Parental Controls
Explore tools and apps that can help you monitor your child's online activity and filter content. These tools provide additional layers of protection against harmful or inappropriate material.
Report Concerns
Teach your child the importance of reporting any uncomfortable or suspicious online interactions to a trusted adult. Encourage them to speak up if they experience or witness cyberbullying.
Model Responsible Behavior
Children learn by example. Demonstrate responsible social media use, as your behavior can shape your child's attitudes and approach to their own online interactions.
Common Social Media Risks & Warning Signs
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is the use of digital platforms, such as social media, text messages, or online games, to harass, threaten, or manipulate others. It can take many forms, including mean or threatening comments, spreading rumors, or intentionally excluding someone from online groups.
46% of teens have experienced some form of cyberbullying behavior (Pew Research Center)
1 in 5 students report being bullied online (Cyberbullying Research Center)
Warning Signs of Cyberbullying
- Your child suddenly becomes upset after using their phone or computer.
- They may express reluctance or anxiety about going online or using specific apps.
- Changes in behavior, such as increased secrecy about online activities or reluctance to share details about interactions with peers.
- A decline in self-esteem or confidence, particularly regarding online interactions.
If you notice these signs, it’s important to have a conversation with your child about their online interactions and address any concerns. Reassure them that they can always come to you if they are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable.
Privacy Risks & Scams
Social media can expose children to privacy risks and scams that might compromise their personal information or put them in vulnerable situations. Phishing, account hacking, and online scams are common threats, especially targeting younger users who may not fully understand the risks.
Types of Risks:
Phishing
Fraudsters may pose as legitimate companies or social media platforms to trick children and teens into sharing sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, or addresses.
Hacking
Cybercriminals may attempt to gain access to your child’s social media account to spread harmful content, steal personal information, or use it for malicious purposes.
Online Scams
Children and teens might be targeted by fake promotions, contests, or offers that encourage them to share personal information or money.
Warning Signs
- Receiving unsolicited messages from strangers asking for personal information or offering free gifts or prizes.
- Unexpected password reset requests or unusual log-in attempts.
- Requests from unknown people to “friend” or “follow” them, especially if they seem suspicious or overly eager.
- A sudden increase in spam messages, ads, or pop-up notifications.
To protect against these risks, encourage your child to avoid sharing personal details online and to be cautious when interacting with unfamiliar accounts. Use privacy settings to limit who can see your child’s posts and personal information, and remind them never to accept friend requests or messages from strangers.
Additional Resources
"Kids and social media: Online safety tips every parent should know" by Norton
Essential advice for parents to safeguard their children on social media. The guide includes practical tips on protecting privacy, recognizing cyberbullying, and managing screen time.
"Keeping teens safe on social media: What parents should know to protect their kids" by American Psychological Association
Research-based insights into how social media affects teens and provides parents with strategies to foster positive online behaviors and protect mental health.
NetSmartz
Online resource from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children that educates kids, parents, and educators about digital safety, including how to avoid cyberbullying and online predators.
The Morgan Nick Foundation
Dedicated to preventing child abduction and keeping kids safe, offering resources on online safety, stranger danger, and how to talk to children about personal safety.
Concerned About Your Child’s Online Activity?
Ensuring your child's safety on social media is a collaborative effort between parents, educators, and law enforcement. By staying informed and proactive, we can create a safer online environment for our children. The FSPS Police Department is happy to serve as a resource to help parents navigate the digital landscape for their children.