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Social Media and Children

Consider guidelines before students head back to school

8/19/2024

As parents review school supply lists and consider back-to-school routines, Aspirus Health encourages parents to think ahead to expectations around their children’s social media use. 

 

“While social media may help kids stay connected with friends and family, it can also be a conduit for mental health issues and disrupted sleep patterns,” says Eunju “EJ” Cho, a Doctor of Nursing Practice at Aspirus Oxford Clinic. 

 

Anxiety and Depression: During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant development. Unfortunately, this is also when social media use tends to increase among students. Studies have linked social media to increased rates of anxiety and depression. 

 

Addictive Algorithms: Many social media apps use algorithms that encourage prolonged usage. This can lead to excessive screen time, negatively impacting attention span and sleep quality. According to Unites States Health and Human Services, one-third or more of girls aged 11 to 15 say they feel “addicted” to certain social media platforms and over half of teenagers report that it would be hard to give up social media. 

 

Eating Disorders: The unrealistic body image standards propagated by social media can have a lasting effect on children and teens. Social media has contributed to a rise in eating disorders. 

 

“Before kids head back to school, this is a great time for parents and children to discuss together what's acceptable and what's unacceptable content,” says Cho.   

 

Here are some recommended tips to help guide children through today’s digital era: 

 

  1. Open Dialogue: Instead of outright blocking content, engage in open conversations about acceptable and unacceptable online material. Establish a platform for discussing online experiences and uncertainties. 
  2. Moderation Over Restriction: Encourage a balance between online and offline activities, setting realistic limits on screen time. 
  3. Digital Literacy: Teach children to critically assess online content, question its authenticity, and understand its potential impacts. 
  4. Privacy and Sharing: Emphasize the importance of privacy settings and cautious sharing of personal information. 
  5. Model Responsible Behavior: Demonstrate responsible social media usage to instill good habits in children. 
  6. Family Media Plan: Collaborate with children to create a family media plan that outlines screen time limits, app usage, and appropriate times for using social media. 
  7. Mindful Sleep: Establish a tech-free time before bedtime to encourage healthy sleep patterns for the entire family. 

By fostering open communication, setting healthy boundaries, and encouraging critical thinking, parents and caregivers can guide children to navigate the digital landscape with confidence.

 

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