Teens nowadays spend a large portion of their time online. While the internet provides many educational and social opportunities, it also comes with risks like cyberbullying. As a parent, it’s important to keep your teen safe online and prevent cyberbullying. This article will provide strategies parents can use to protect their teens in the digital world.
Not Sharing Photos of Your Teen Publicly Online
Photos and videos we post of our teens online can easily be misused. Once an image is online, you surrender control of it. Rather than posting photos publicly on social media, consider sharing them privately with friends and family. Apps like Kapshoo allow you to share photos securely with only selected contacts. You can also text or email photos directly to the people you want to see them. Sharing photos privately reduces your teen’s digital footprint and prevents images from ending up in the wrong hands.
Educating Your Teen About Cyberbullying
Have open and honest conversations with your teen about cyberbullying. Explain that it involves using technology like social media, messaging apps, and emails to intimidate, harass or embarrass someone. Cyberbullying can include spreading rumours, sharing private information or images and sending hurtful messages. Make sure your teen knows cyberbullying is unacceptable and takes many forms. Outline the emotional impacts it can have. Provide examples of positive online behaviours and make it clear your teen should treat others with respect online.
Monitoring Your Teen’s Online Activity
While teens need privacy, monitoring their online activity can help keep them safe. Have your teen show you their profiles on social media and other platforms. Make sure their privacy settings are set to limit what others can see. Periodically check in with your teen about their online experiences. This shows you care about their digital life. Keep lines of communication open so they feel comfortable coming to you about any cyberbullying or inappropriate interactions. While you don’t want to be overbearing, some monitoring helps you notice any problems early on.
Encouraging Your Teen to Be a Positive Force Online
Rather than just telling your teen what not to do online, encourage them to use technology for good. They can stand up to cyberbullying by not engaging, blocking bullies and reporting inappropriate behaviour. Share examples of teens who combat cyberbullying by spreading positive messages. Your teen can also use their online presence to highlight causes and organisations they care about. Helping others creates positive self-esteem and makes it less likely your teen will get caught up in cyberbullying.
Reassure Your Teen That They Can Talk to You
The worst thing a teen can do if they are cyberbullied is keep quiet. Make sure your teen knows you are someone they can talk to about anything, including cyberbullying. If they come to you upset about online interactions, listen without judgment. Then, help them report any harassment and block abusive users. Reassure your teen that a cyberbully’s words reflect the bully’s flaws, not theirs. If the bullying is severe, you may need to contact their school and even the police. Above all, reinforce that your teen deserves kindness and should never face abuse online or offline.
While the internet provides many opportunities, it also poses risks for teens, like cyberbullying. However, by taking proactive steps, parents can help their teens avoid cyberbullying and have positive digital experiences. With some education and vigilance, parents can keep their teens safe in the virtual world.
