As part of our ongoing series, “Tween Tech,” we delve into the social media platforms that dominate our children’s digital lives. Previous discussions have covered apps like Jott, Snapchat, Instagram, and Clash of Clans. Today, we focus on Facebook, a platform that has evolved significantly since its inception.
Overview of Facebook
Established in 2004 primarily for Harvard students, Facebook has grown into the world’s largest social networking site, boasting 1.49 billion users as of mid-2015.
Why Do Teens and Tweens Prefer It?
Many children are aware of Facebook even before creating their own accounts, having witnessed their parents share their milestones online. Since Facebook is familiar territory for many parents, it often becomes the first social media platform they permit their children to join. In fact, among kids who utilize only one social network, roughly two-thirds are on Facebook. Despite claims that Facebook is losing popularity among younger users, statistics show that it remains the most frequented platform. The network’s appeal is amplified as more of their friends join, prompting others to create accounts.
The Significance of Facebook
Recognized as the “gateway” to social media, Facebook frequently serves as a tween’s initial foray into online social interaction. Its relatively secure environment provides a valuable opportunity for young users to learn responsible online behavior that can carry over to other platforms.
Current Usage Statistics
According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 71% of individuals aged 13 to 17 are active on Facebook. Since the platform mandates users to be at least 13 years old, there’s no definitive data on how many younger children may be using it.
How Kids Engage with Facebook
From my interactions with tweens and teens, they typically use Facebook similarly to their parents: sharing photos, memes, staying connected with friends, and indulging in entertaining videos.
Monitoring Your Child’s Activity
A proactive step for parents is to create their own Facebook account and request to befriend their child. While this approach isn’t infallible—determined tweens can easily conceal their activities—it serves as a constructive starting point. Before solidifying this online friendship, have a candid conversation about boundaries for online interaction. For instance, while wishing your child a happy birthday on their wall may be acceptable, they might prefer you refrain from commenting on every conversation they have with friends. Should any concerns arise from their posts, address them privately rather than on their timeline.
Relaxing Parental Concerns
Compared to platforms like Snapchat and Yik Yak, Facebook presents fewer risks for tweens and is generally easier for parents to monitor. Many parents already possess accounts, allowing for a greater understanding of the platform and, consequently, better guidance for their children. Furthermore, Facebook includes several features that enable users to manage their visibility. Children can decide who to add as friends, conceal posts from certain individuals, and customize privacy settings regarding who can view their content. Collaboratively navigating these privacy settings is crucial to ensure both parties understand and properly configure them. This engagement also opens up discussions about appropriate sharing practices.
Reasons for Parental Vigilance
Despite being friends on Facebook, parents shouldn’t assume they have full visibility into their child’s online activities. Tweens can effortlessly limit the audience for their posts, and private messages or groups offer additional avenues for communication that may escape parental notice. The only way to monitor these interactions is by directly accessing your child’s account. Private groups are accessible from the sidebar, and messages can be viewed through the chat icon at the top of the page, though these can be easily deleted. Additionally, tech-savvy kids could create a separate, undisclosed profile. As with all online platforms, the most effective safeguard is to maintain open and honest dialogue with your tween regarding expectations and to keep communication lines active.
Potential challenges that tweens may encounter on Facebook echo those faced by their parents: bullying, exclusion from events, and the pressure of gaining likes or friends. Utilizing personal anecdotes can serve as effective conversation starters to help your tween navigate the complexities of social media.
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Summary
Facebook remains a pivotal social media platform for tweens, acting as an initial introduction to online social interaction. While it offers a more manageable environment for parents to monitor, vigilance is still necessary as children navigate privacy settings and peer interactions. Open communication and establishing boundaries are crucial for fostering a healthy online experience.
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