If You’re Tracking Your Kids, Should You Tell Them?
Sep 14, 2023
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Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp discuss parenting digital citizens. Dr. Devorah Heitner shares insights from her book about navigating social media for kids. They talk about setting boundaries, mentoring over monitoring, and advocating for kids in online situations. They emphasize respecting privacy and avoiding public shaming.
Open communication is crucial in helping children navigate social media, while parents should also model responsible behavior online.
Social media companies need to implement stronger protections and reporting mechanisms to prevent harm and promote safer online interactions.
Deep dives
The Importance of Parental Guidance in Navigating Social Media
Parental guidance is crucial in helping children navigate the intricate world of social media. It is important for parents to be aware of their own modeling and be mindful of what they share about their kids on social media. Open communication with children about the challenges and potential dangers of social media is essential. Parents can also help children develop problem-solving skills and establish boundaries when it comes to using technology. By fostering a supportive and informed environment, parents can empower their children to make responsible choices and navigate the digital landscape safely.
The Need for Stronger Protections and Regulation on Social Media Platforms
Social media companies should take more responsibility in dealing with reported harassment, bullying, and harmful content. Stronger protections and reporting mechanisms should be in place to protect users, especially minors, from experiencing harm on these platforms. Design features that can be exploited for negative purposes, such as the like button or anonymous messaging, should be reconsidered and modified to promote safer and healthier online interactions.
The Importance of Media Literacy Education in Schools
Schools should prioritize media literacy education to equip children with the essential skills to critically evaluate and interpret information online. This includes evaluating news sources, understanding the performative aspects of social media, and developing a healthy body image in the face of societal pressures. By providing media literacy education, schools can empower children to navigate the digital world with resilience and discernment.
Balancing Delay and Mentorship in Introducing Technology to Children
While delaying the introduction of smartphones and social media to children is often recommended, it is important to consider individual circumstances. Parents should evaluate their child's maturity, specific needs, and levels of responsibility when making decisions about technology use. Delaying access to certain technologies, coupled with open communication and mentorship from parents, can help children establish responsible and safe digital habits.
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp talk about parenting digital citizens.
Elizabeth sits down with author and speaker Dr. Devorah Heitner about her latest book, Growing Up in Public. The book helps guide parents through navigating social media and phone usage for their kids — and the privacy, freedom, and surveillance issues that come along with phones.
We also go over our week in parenting. And then, for Slate Plus, we’ll debrief on our conversation with Devorah — and how the hosts handle screentime and internet access in their own households.
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Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Maura Currie.