With 20 million children actively using Facebook, how do we let our children keep up with technology while also protecting them from cyber bullying?
A survey last year by Consumer Reports magazine found that more than one-third of Facebook’s child users were under 13, so were using it illegally. Even more shocking, more than 5 million were 10 and under. These children lie about their age to set up an account because they think it’s cool and it’s what other kids are doing. But they are simply not old enough to appreciate the risks.
ConsumerReports.org reported last year that one million children were harassed, threatened, or subjected to other forms of cyber bullying on Facebook in 2010-11. Medical Communications Editor at the Boston Children’s Hospital, Dr Claire McCarthy also warns parents that too much time using social media can also affect school grades and even lead to depression. “As with anything that is part of life, it’s our job as parents to teach our children what they need to know about it,” she advises.
Dr McCarthy’s advice includes keeping the computer in a public place, limiting screen time and making sure you child is using all the privacy settings they can. Whether you are a school student or a US Congressman, the best advice is to think before you post and if you wouldn’t be happy to see the photo or comment on the front page of your local paper, then you’re probably best not to post it!