As a mom to a tween girl, I often notice her and her friends constantly glued to their phones, whether they’re taking selfies or scrolling through their feeds. While they’re definitely quicker at typing than I am and have mastered the art of selfies, there are a few key lessons I’d like to share before they dive too deep into the world of social media.
- Duck Faces? Not So Much. Sure, a duck face here and there might be fun, but let’s mix it up a bit, okay?
- Don’t Trim Your Memories. I know it’s trendy to keep your social media profile minimal, but remember that these platforms are a way to share your journey. Don’t delete your moments!
- Embrace Yourself. Always be genuine. You’re smart, strong, and kind—don’t try to be anything less.
- Value Your Privacy. Everything you post can be seen by anyone. It’s not worth risking your future over a few questionable pics or texts.
- Set Boundaries. If someone pressures you to share inappropriate content, that person isn’t worth your time. Bye, Felicia!
- Cherish Your Friends. Treat your girlfriends with love and respect. Compliment them, ask before posting pictures, and uplift them online.
- Be an Ally. If you see someone struggling or being bullied, step up. A kind comment can make a world of difference. If you’re unsure how to help, just ask me.
- Skip the Ratings. Seriously, why do we need to rate each other? Let’s just enjoy the moment.
- Use Your Voice Wisely. Avoid excluding or hurting others. Your words carry weight—make sure they’re kind.
- Trust Your Gut. If something feels off, don’t ignore that feeling. Listen to yourself and seek help if needed.
- You’re Not Obligated. You don’t have to join in on anything that makes you uncomfortable—be it group chats or viral memes.
- I’m Here for You. Whether you want advice, support, or just someone to listen, I’m always available. You’re navigating a lot, and I respect you for it.
- Mistakes Are Okay. You won’t get in trouble for making a mistake, but honesty is crucial. Talk to me; I’m here to help.
- Quality Over Quantity. This applies to everything—followers, posts, and friendships. Focus on what truly matters.
- Stay Humble. No one is beneath you, and everyone has value. Remember that and treat others accordingly. If you forget, your phone privileges might disappear!
- Laugh Often. Don’t take life too seriously. A good laugh can change everything.
While this advice is relevant for any young person, my focus is on my tween daughter right now. A world where tweens navigate online spaces with a little more wisdom is a world I’d love to see. For more insights on parenting and family topics, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
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Summary
In summary, the digital landscape can be tricky for tweens. As they navigate social media, instilling values like self-respect, kindness, and authenticity can make a world of difference in their online interactions. Reminding them to embrace their individuality while being cautious about their online presence is essential as they grow.