Social media and teenagers

Any approach by parents to the use of social media by young people has to involve the whole family.

All parents are digital role models for their children. How we interact with technology, when we choose to use it and how long we spend connected to our devices - these are all behaviours that the young people we live with will likely mirror.

Setting boundaries is an important first step to making sure that technology and social media enhances family life, rather than detracts from it.

Create the rules together

Deciding on guidelines and rules for the use of technology should be a collaborative process - after all, none of us like to be told what to do!

Children and teenagers are much more likely to accept structures and frameworks that have been negotiated rather than imposed. Talk through the pros and cons of the digital world together, discuss what’s most important to each family member, and then take steps to achieve a balance between online and offline time for all.

Embrace the many possibilities

The online world has many opportunities to offer; it’s an exciting place for young people and especially teenagers to inhabit. We must accept that it’s no longer possible to live outside of the confines of a digitally-connected society; instead, learn to embrace the benefits.

Parents should work with their children to manage digital and social media use sensibly, but also to identify the many opportunities for creativity, education and rich connection, encouraging children to spend their time online wisely.

Build digital resilience

We all need help to develop and maintain digital resilience in today’s world. We need to be able to safely embrace the vast daily influx of information and connection without feeling overwhelmed. We need to be intentional with our time online, spending it in positive and enriching environments. We need to stay in control of the technology.

All family members play an important role in supporting one another, while it remains the responsibility of adults - both parents and professionals - to help children and teenagers grow the skills needed to successfully explore the online world.

Top Tips for a digitally healthy household