Saving this page to a PDF file.
Chrome
Step 1: Click the "Print this page" button. Alternatively, press Ctrl + P (on Mac, use Cmd + P)
Step 2: In the resulting pop-up window, click the Down Arrow to the right of Destination and select Save As PDF in the drop-down menu. You can also optionally choose to hide 'Headers and Footers' with a checkbox.
IE/Edge
Step 1: Click the "Print this page" button. Alternatively, press Ctrl + P (on Mac, use Cmd + P)
Step 2: On the following dialog, under Printer, choose 'Microsoft Print to PDF'
Click 'Print' and you have saved your webpage to a PDF file.
Is my child sharing too much online?
Social networking has become a big part of young people's lives today. Apps like TikTok, Reddit, WhatsApp, Twitch, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and more seem to fill up most teens' waking hours. As a parent, it's natural to be concerned about what your child does on social media and how much time they spend on it. It can be challenging to understand the appeal of sending and viewing pictures that vanish on platforms like Snapchat, especially if you're not actively using them yourself. And with new social networks constantly emerging, it can feel overwhelming.
However, many aspects of helping your child enjoy social media are similar to guiding their offline friendships. It's important to consider if they're too focused on others' opinions, if their friends are pressuring or undermining them, and specific issues that come with online socialising.
To help you and your child navigate the world of social media, here are a few tips:
Rules & limits
Age limits
Most social media platforms have a minimum age requirement, often 13 years old. While you might think your child is ready at a younger age or should wait longer, it's crucial to remember that sites designed for older users may lack safeguards for younger children or contain content aimed at an older audience.
Set ground rules
When your child starts using social media, establish clear rules about what is and isn't allowed. For example, you might be okay with them having a Facebook account, but only accepting friend requests from people they know in real life.
Know the tools
Safety tools and privacy settings are vital for responsible social media use. Teach your child how to find blocking, reporting, and privacy settings on their favorite apps and explain why it's important to use them. Learn more about setting safety and privacy settings on different platforms.
Relationships & Communicating
Comparing oneself to others
It's easy to feel down after scrolling through a feed of friends' pictures, seeing their seemingly perfect moments. Help your child understand that people usually only post their "best moments" and that comparing oneself to these images is not productive. Emphasise that no one is as flawless as their Instagram account suggests.
What others think about you
Teens and young people can become overly concerned with their peers' opinions on social media. Make sure your child knows you're always there for them if they feel lonely and remind them of their offline strengths and qualities. Explain that nobody can please everyone all the time and that relying too heavily on others' opinions for self-worth is risky.
Bullying
Unfortunately, some individuals use social media to bully others. From mean comments to dedicated hate groups, online bullying can be hurtful and difficult to escape. Familiarise yourself and your child with blocking and reporting tools available on major platforms. It's crucial to teach your child how to treat others with kindness online, as a harmless joke to one person can deeply hurt another.
Wider issues
Digital footprint
Remind your child that whatever they post online stays there indefinitely. Hurtful comments or compromising pictures can misrepresent who they are and impact future opportunities in school and work.
Embrace the positives
Help your child see the positives of social media usage. Encourage them to use social media for positive and creative pursuits, such as supporting causes they care about, staying informed, making professional connections, and staying in touch with friends and family.
Stay involved
You don't need to be aware of every new app popular among teens, but having a general understanding of your child's online activities is essential. Just as you want to know their offline whereabouts, it's important to have open conversations about their online experiences.
By implementing these tips and maintaining ongoing communication with your child, you can help them navigate the world of social media safely and responsibly. Together, we can make the digital world a positive and secure space for our children.
