HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2024 | 21
is even more dangerous because the parts of the brain that govern self-control do not fully develop until early adulthood . Parents can limit usage of platforms that tally likes and set screen limits to minimize excessive scrolling .
% Monitor usage and maintain a dialogue about it . The APA urges parents to monitor their childrenճ social media usage , particularly during early adolescence . But itճ equally important to maintain a dialogue with children about their social media usage . The APA notes studies have found that engaging in ongoing discussions with adolescents about safe social media usage can help them navigate its dangers more effectively . Engaging youngsters each week also can make them feel more safe and not as though theyղe being judged about their usage . Discuss what they see and their understanding of what they see . Parents also can present hypothetical situations that may unfold on social media and ask them how they would respond .
% Lead by example . Children learn many of their behaviors from their parents , so if Mom and Dad exhibit poor social media habits , then youngsters are more likely to follow suit . The APA urges parents to avoid scanning social media during meals and family time . Parents also can self-govern their own usage , setting the same limits on time as they set for children . Periodic breaks from social media usage also can show children how itճ alright to take a holiday from the platforms every once in a while .
Parents have a tall task ahead of them in regard to helping kids safely navigate social media . But various strategies can increase the chances kids have a positive social media experience .
HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2024 | 21