As a doctor and a parent, I’ve noticed that my tween daughter and her peers have an almost permanent attachment to their phones—either grasped in their hands or stashed in their pockets. While their skills in texting and taking selfies are impressive, there are several vital lessons I want to share with her before her online habits become too ingrained.
- Duck Faces: Let’s talk about those duck faces. They can be fun, but maybe try a different expression every now and then. Variety is key!
- Social Media Storytelling: I understand that many kids aim to keep their Instagram feeds minimal, but remember that social media is a way to document your life. Don’t delete your memories; cherish them.
- Embrace Your True Self: Love who you are! You don’t need to pretend to be someone else. You’re smart, strong, kind, and funny—just as you are.
- Self-Respect: Everything you share online can be seen by anyone. Protect your future by being cautious with what you post. No momentary crush is worth compromising your dignity.
- Healthy Boundaries: If someone pressures you to share inappropriate content, they are not the right person for you. It’s okay to walk away from those situations.
- Value Your Friends: Your friends are your support system. Treat them with kindness, ask for permission before sharing their photos, and uplift them with your words.
- Stand Up for Others: If you see someone struggling or being bullied online, don’t hesitate to step in. A simple like or supportive comment can make a huge difference. Your role as a friend is crucial.
- Avoid Rating Culture: Engaging in rating others on social media is not a good idea. There’s no real value in that; let’s focus on positivity instead.
- Kind Communication: Your words hold power. Use them to build others up rather than tear them down.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, listen to your gut. It’s essential to recognize when to take a step back or reach out for help.
- You’re Not Obligated: Remember, you never have to join in on anything online that makes you uncomfortable—whether it’s group chats or memes.
- I’m Here for You: If you ever need support, I’m just a conversation away. Whether you want advice or simply someone to listen, I respect your needs and am ready to help.
- Mistakes Are Okay: You won’t get in trouble for making a mistake. However, honesty is vital. If you lie to me, that’s a different story.
- Prioritize Quality: It’s better to have meaningful connections than a large number of superficial ones. Focus on quality interactions.
- Equality Matters: Remember, you are not better than anyone else. Everyone has their own worth. Treat each person with respect, or you risk losing privileges—yes, that’s a reality!
- Have Fun: Lastly, don’t take life too seriously. A little laughter can change your perspective on many situations.
While these insights are applicable to all tweens, I’m currently focusing on my daughter and her friends. A world where they engage with social media thoughtfully is a world I would love to see. For more on navigating online behavior, feel free to check out our privacy policy for more tips on how to stay safe online.
Summary
Teaching my tween daughter about online behavior is essential for her development. From respecting herself and her friends to understanding the importance of her voice, these lessons will guide her in creating a positive online presence. If she ever feels overwhelmed, I’m always here to support her, ensuring she knows that mistakes are part of learning, and laughter is vital in life.