5 Things Children & Adolescents Can Do To Navigate The Digital World
According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory and the Department of Health and Human Services, up to 95% of youth ages 13-17 report using a social media platform, with more than a third saying they use social media “almost constantly.” While there is evidence that shows that social media does have benefits, there are also indicators that it can also have a profound risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of our kids.
Here are 5 things children and adolescents can do to navigate the digital world in a safe and healthy way.
#1. Create boundaries to balance online & offline activities.
Limit the use of phones, tablets, and computers for at least 1 hour before bedtime and through the night to enable sufficient and quality sleep.
Keep mealtimes and in-person gatherings device-free to help build social bonds and engage in two-way conversations with others.
Nurture your in-person relationships by connecting with others and making unplugged interactions a daily priority.
#2. Develop protective strategies and healthy practices.
Track the amount of time you spend online.
Block unwanted contacts and content.
Learn about and use available privacy and safety settings.
Ensure you are connecting with peers in-person.
#3. Be cautious about what you share.
Be selective with what you post and share online as it is often public and can be stored permanently.
If you aren’t sure if you should post something, it’s usually best if you don’t. Talk to a family member or trusted adult to see if you should.
#4. Protect yourself and others.
Harassment that happens in email, text messaging, direct messaging, online games, or on social media is harmful and can be cyberbullying. It might involve trolling, rumors, or photos passed around for others to see – and it can leave people feeling angry, sad, ashamed, or hurt. If you or someone you know is the victim of cyberbullying or other forms of online harassment and abuse:
Don’t keep online harassment or abuse a secret.
Reach out to at least one person you trust, such as a close friend, family member, counselor, or teacher, who can give you the help and support you deserve.
Visit stopbullying.gov for helpful tips on how to report cyberbullying.
If your private images have been taken and shared online without your permission, visit Take it Down to help get them removed.
Don't take part in online harassment or abuse.
Avoid forwarding or sharing messages or images and tell others to stop.
Report offensive content to the site or network where you saw it.
#5. Reach out for help.
If you or someone you know is being negatively affected by social media, reach out to a trusted friend or adult for help.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate help.