Welcome to the latest edition of “Tween Tech,” where we explore the social media platforms that have captured our kids’ attention. If you missed our earlier discussions on platforms like Jott, Snapchat, Instagram, or Clash of Clans, now’s your chance to catch up!
What’s the Deal with Facebook?
Launched in 2004 primarily for Harvard students, Facebook has since ballooned into the world’s largest social network, boasting around 1.49 billion users as of mid-2015.
Why Teens and Tweens Love It:
Kids often know about Facebook long before they hit the magic age of 13 (the minimum age to register). After all, they’ve seen their parents share every milestone online. As a result, Facebook tends to be the first social media account many parents feel comfortable allowing their children to have. In fact, two-thirds of kids who only use one social network choose Facebook. Its accessibility from any Wi-Fi-enabled device makes it a go-to for many.
Though some media outlets claim Facebook is out of vogue among younger users, the statistics tell a different story. It may not be the only platform tweens are using, but it remains the most popular. The more friends join, the more others want to, creating a snowball effect.
Why It Matters:
Facebook serves as the “gateway drug” to the vast world of social media. It’s often a tween’s first real encounter with online networking, providing a relatively safe environment for them to learn smart online habits that can be beneficial in other apps later on.
How Many Kids Are On It:
According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, about 71% of kids aged 13 to 17 are active on Facebook. However, since the platform requires users to be at least 13 (or to fib about their age), there’s no solid data on how many younger kids are sneaking onto the site.
How Kids Engage with Facebook:
Based on chats with tweens and teens, their usage mirrors that of their parents: posting photos, sharing memes, catching up with friends, and, of course, watching endless cat videos.
Monitoring Your Tween’s Activity:
One effective way to keep tabs on your child’s Facebook interactions is to create your own account and send them a friend request. While it’s not foolproof (a determined tween can still hide activity), it’s a solid start.
Before you hit that “add friend” button, have an open discussion about what’s acceptable online behavior. For instance, wishing them a happy birthday is probably okay, but commenting on every post may be a no-go. If something seems amiss, it’s best to address it privately, away from the public eye of Facebook.
A Little Leeway for Parents:
When compared to platforms like Snapchat or Yik Yak, Facebook is generally less risky for tweens and easier for parents to monitor. Most parents have their own accounts, making it simpler to offer guidance as tweens navigate the digital landscape.
Additionally, Facebook has various features that can help limit exposure to unwanted content. Tweens can control their friend lists, hide posts from certain people, and adjust privacy settings to determine who sees their posts. Going through these settings together—though tedious—is key for ensuring understanding and safety. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss what’s appropriate to share online.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Just because you’re friends on Facebook doesn’t mean you’re seeing everything your tween posts. They can easily limit who sees their content, and private messages or groups can exist without parental oversight. To keep the lines of communication open, regularly discuss your expectations with your child.
Furthermore, it’s essential to address potential issues like bullying, exclusion from events, and the pressure of likes and friendships. Sharing your own experiences can help your tween learn to navigate the sometimes tricky landscape of social media.
For more insights, check out our post on how to communicate effectively with your child about online safety.
Summary:
Facebook remains a dominant platform among teens and tweens, serving as an entry point into social media. While it offers a familiar and relatively safe environment for kids, parents must stay engaged and communicate openly about online behavior and safety. The platform’s privacy settings can help manage exposure, but vigilance is necessary to ensure healthy digital habits.