Most everyone has one. Most everyone uses them. Most everyone scrolls through them. Social media is all over the place. It is how most people communicate now. Text, email, phone calls are very much a thing of the past. More and More people only communicate through social media avenues. This is not always a bad thing but can be a disruptive thing. Many of you know that a few weeks ago North Mahaska had a scare with a student's social media. Also, on an article that the Robin Hood app (investment app) put out indicates the struggle teens have with social media and their mental struggles.
I share this as a reminder that it is very vital for parents to monitor their student's social media. I don't mean for you to go out and destroy their mobile devices or have them remove their social media's completely but to monitor it. It is our responsibility (as parents/gaurdians) to help guide and direct our students through this way of life. None of us adults grew up with Social Media as apart of our lives. The iPhone came out in 2007, Youtube 2005, Facebook 2004, public email came available in 1995/96. This type of tech is relatively new and we need to be helpers of our students threw this social media world.
A few tips on how to help manage your student's (and yours) social media:
1) Open communication - Take time to talk about what social media you are on. Have your student actually teach you how to use the social media they are connected too. One of the top fractures in relationships (no matter the type) is lack of communication. Communication builds trust and responsibility.
2) Open door policy - this can be difficult to implement but make social media available where everyone can see. Have a place where devices are plugged in away from the bed. Make it to where you can have access to their socials. It does not mean to micromanage them but to monitor them. Also, if you are married your spouse should know your passwords and the socials you are connected too. Again, it just helps with trust and the building of relationship between you and your family.
3) Have a "sabbath" from social media at least once a week. Unplug and unwind from the busyness of life. Social medias will make your mind think it is still working and active. Rest is always a good thing. The Lord took a sabbath after creating everything, we should take a note from our Creator. Take time to breath from social media.
4) Educate yourself on the different social medias. Watch a "how to" YouTube video about social media or read a simple article on the ones your student is on. Again, have your student actually teach you about the ones they are on and why they like it.
5) Ask and Pray to the Holy Spirit for Guidance in this matter and all matters. Ultimately, He is the one that will change hearts, guide steps and make us more like Christ. Go the the Great Counselor (The Holy Spirit) and get true guidance.
Parenting is a tough job but a crucial job. Keep up the good work!
"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are alder, they will not leave it." (NLT) Proverbs 22:6
-Pastor Shawn
