In today's world, social networks serve as a communication simulator for children, where a child learns all the delights of live communication with their peers. As a child takes his first steps, he writes his first words and learns to communicate. Suppose a child is shy because of details of appearance. In that case, if his shyness prevents him from getting along with his peers, he can hone his communication skills, try different behavior styles and get confirmation of his best qualities on the Internet. Here it only matters what he says and thinks, and his opinion can be expressed more freely, without fear of environmental pressure. Here he does not risk losing his reputation because of failed experiments. Scientists have already proved the positive impact of social networks on the child - they help to develop kindness, a sense of humor and beauty, and a sense of social justice! But we should not forget that the child must be closely watched in life and social communication.
Teenagers often make an account on various social networking sites to communicate and share photos and video files. But these files can be of different content.
A child can also receive unwanted files from strangers, and such files can traumatize his psyche, and this is often done through Snapchat because there, you can delete or hide files. Therefore, it is worth specifying how to view someone's Snapchat history, so you know how to protect your child and stand up for him.
How to limit the use of social networks by children?
- It is impossible to wean a child from the Internet, but it is quite possible to make the real world more interesting for him. Therefore, the issue of addiction to social networks should be approached fully:
- Help your child find a hobby. Scientists found that 100% of children who do not have Internet addiction have a favorite hobby outside of the network. And over 80% of children suffering from this disorder have no outside hobbies (most consider social networks to be a hobby).
- Pay enough attention to your child, spend time with them, and build rapport with them. Scientists say that in families where the child is not listened to or brushed aside, the influence of social networks on the child is several times stronger. The risk group includes children whose parents work a lot or do not have a trusting relationship with their sons and daughters. Lack of personal physical space - for example, their room or area for creativity - can also provoke social networking.
- Maintain a daily routine and encourage self-discipline in your child. All Internet-independent children know how to plan their time and actively do so. Of the mildly dependent group, only 40% mastered this skill. Medium addiction formed the group with 30% planning time, and strong addiction only 3%. In the group of absolutely addicted not a single child knew how to maintain the schedule.
- Honestly, warn your child of all threats. Warned means armed. Take the time to familiarize yourself with data from foundations and other resources that warn about the possible dangers of social media and highlight fraudulent schemes. And then share the experts' words with your kids. Knowing about the phone and social media addiction, some kids learn to control themselves.
Use special services and programs. Several programs allow you to completely block your child's access to the Internet when he is not under adult supervision. However, teenagers use all sorts of tricks to eliminate such control. Therefore, it is better to prefer services like UniSafeKids, which allow you to track what the child does on the Internet. And in extreme cases, to close access to the Internet discipline until the lessons are done.
Listen to your child and be vigilant!