Are Moms Overinvolved in Their Kids' Online Lives?
CHICAGO (CBS) — With sites like Instagram, Snapchat and Kik gaining in popularity among tweens and teens, parents face unique challenges in keeping kids safe while trying to foster independence. In a recent New York Times blog post, mom Erika Milvy shared how easy it is to get swept away and overinvolved in our children's online social experiences.
Today on CBS2 Social, author and bullying prevention expert Carrie Goldman and Tamara Kaldor, program manager for Common Sense Media talk to Wendy Widom about the addictiveness of Instagram, resisting the urge to fight our kids' online battles and encouraging responsible digital behavior.
Here are their top 10 tips for families. Watch the video above to learn more.
- When your child gets upset about the number of likes on an Instagram post, suggest that she take a step back and think about where her validation is coming from. Discuss whether a post should have the ability to make or break a person's day.
- Talk to your child about how temptation is out there and sometimes human curiosity gets the better of us. Share with your child that you too find certain online posts enticing.
- Ask that your child tell you three things she read online that were interesting and valuable. Do the same, so you are teaching each other.
- Rather than review your child's posts daily, tell her that you will spot check her social media accounts. Not checking frequently means you are a healthy distance from her everyday social interactions with her peers.
- The tween and teen years are not always easy. Don't be afraid to let your child feel discomfort as she develops socially.
- With your child, identify an adult she can speak to if she has a problem online and does not want to come to you.
- If your child sees someone is talking about her online, tell her not to retaliate. Teach her to walk away and cool off.
- Foster bonding time with your child that is not centered on Instagram or other social sites.
- Connect with other parents so you can support each other.
- Talk with your child about various digital dilemmas that may occur and how she can manage them. This way, she has a plan and a tool kit for when issues arise.
