In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. Children have learnt to use smartphones better than their parents! This has stirred quite the pot in the parenting world? Well, let’s explore why social media for children is such a controversial topic in parenting.

The question that often arises while dealing the controversy is – whether social media is a boon or a bane. In this article, we will explore its various aspects and the impact on children, addressing both the positive and negative aspects of this phenomenon.

The Digital Playground vs. The Park Playground:

Remember the days when a playground was just a bunch of swings and slides? Children played games and their laughter filled the air. The cricket ball breaking a glass window and some aunty scolding the mischievous kid!

Now, a playground could very well be a touchscreen device loaded with endless games and apps. It’s a modern twist that has left parents scratching their heads. Some intellectual games help children with learning, but is it a necessary means to an end?

Screen Time vs. Quality Time:

Alas, the screen time debate – it’s like the broccoli of parenting discussions. Social media is often blamed for stealing precious family moments. Kids who spend too much time looking at screens may also face physical risks, including obesity and poor eyesight.

Friendships vs. Followers:

Social media has undeniably transformed the way we communicate. It has connected people from different corners of the world, fostering a sense of global community. Social media for children has become an exciting platform to discover interests, make connections and form lasting friendships.

However, in the world of social media, “friends” are tallied in hundreds, if not thousands. But how many of these are genuine friendships, and how many are just digital connections? Parents need to remind them to be wary when making connections on social media. Some certain individuals could pose as friends and be predators looking to exploit or harm them.

Privacy vs. Oversharing:

Privacy has become over-priced! Children may not realize just how much information they’re giving away when posting details online. For example, posting their location which may put them at risk of burglary or an attack from people they don’t trust.

Make sure your children understand that anything posted online is permanent, including embarrassing photos and videos that could surface years later.  Sharing your life on social media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a way to connect and share memories. On the other, it exposes personal information that can be misused.

Cyberbullying vs. Cyber Support

Social media for children explore different cultures and communities via photos or contribute towards a cause through a campaign or charity. Many donations occur for supporting a meaningful cause like helping acid victims.

However, the internet can be a ruthless place, and children are not immune to cyberbullying. The fear of their child becoming a target or even a perpetrator keeps parents on edge. Cyberbullying has serious repercussions including  suicide attempts, eating disorders, depression and anxiety among others.

FOMO vs. JOMO

The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is real in the world of social media. Kids feel the pressure to stay connected and participate in every online trend.  This can cause anxiety and feelings of inferiority as they compare their lives on social media with those of others. Especially girls can feel pressured into maintaining an ideal image in order to meet unrealized expectations. Sadly, the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) from precious real moments has been disregarded.

Role Model vs. Role Confusion

Parents often feel they need to set an example when it comes to screen time and social media use. However, even they need to stay updated to have a simple conversation with their children.

Many experts and parental groups advise social media for children should be exempted until middle school.  Parents need to avoid using social media themselves, in order to stop their children. Usually, children are attracted to phones and television because of their parents and other family parents in the first place.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of internet, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon have emerged as powerful tools for the benefit of human beings and to be of service to mankind. We can foster positive change in our children by showing them the right direction and balancing the use of social media. While there are valid concerns and drawbacks associated with these platforms, it is within our hands to shape their impact and utilize them for our children.

 David Alston knowingly said,

“Social media is not a media. The key is to listen, engage, and build relationships.”