FINAL TSTO Lesa Dec 14.pdf - Flipbook - Page 55
Parenting in the digital age: Texts and
social media
Many of us use the Internet and mobile phones to keep the
bonds strong between friends and family. Young people do
the same. A quick text or tweet lets someone know we are
thinking of them. A bit of time on our social media allows us
to share jokes and photos and moments. Children who have
trouble fitting in at school might find safe ways to connect
with others online. Time on the Internet can help us think
through problems and get information. The Internet and
mobile phones allow us informal, quick and alternative types
of media to what’s on TV, and for all these reasons, many of
us love them.
The key thing for young people to remember is that social
networking sites and mobile phone technology creates a
small town effect, where everybody knows your business,
and knows it fast! Not only that, but if you put something
out there, you can’t take it back, because someone else
will have it (whether it’s a photo, a nasty comment, or a
declaration of love) on their phone or computer.
The best way to help your children navigate the online world is
to stay involved. If you use the computer then it’s easier for you
to talk about the pros and cons than if you have never used it.
Our use changes as we get older. Eight to 11 year olds use
the Internet for online games but as children hit high school
they start to use social networking sites. Online life reflects
offline life, so teenagers will flirt, and gossip, and talk about
what happened last night. They will want to belong and
connect with a group. They will look up information about
growing up, sexual development, and/or sex. They may also
have close calls with ‘creeps’ who try to make contact with
them, but most of their contact will be with local friends. For
young people, the point is to be in constant contact with
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