One of my regular podcasts is Not Just Sunday with Patrick Miller and Keith Simon. Recently, they released an episode entitled “Social Media for Kids: What Christian Parents Should Know.” This piqued my interest as, over the last couple of years, I’ve read more and more about the harmful effects of social media on our culture.
It takes at least a decade, usually closer to two, for studies to be done to see the effects and trends of new things. Whether it be technology, the impact of worldwide events, policy, or something else, long-term impact is only seen in the long term. And the long-term impact of social media is not good!
In this podcast, they reference some of the data and provide practical resources and tips for parents handling social media specifically with kids. If you are a parent or grandparent, or serve in the local church with kids, I’d highly recommend taking a listen to this podcast. Here are some highlights I found particularly helpful.
It’s no longer theory; social media is the cause of many legitimate mental health concerns. For several years, the correlation between social media and rising mental health struggles for students was obvious and verifiable. We didn’t know causation, but we were certain of correlation. Now studies show social media to be the cause of mental health struggles specifically for the younger generation. As parents and adults knowing this information, we have a responsibility to guard and protect this vulnerable group whose minds are still growing and developing.
There are always going to be things that are different for adults and kids. As a whole, however, kids are going to want to do the things that their parents do. If parents are constantly on social media, kids are going to want to be also. The impact on adults’ brains is not good, but the impact on a fully formed brain is different than a still-developing brain. As parents, though, it’s important to model healthy handling of social media. Things like (delete comma) not being on it all the time, having screen-free times, and other boundaries.
This hits close to home with three kids of my own. I know it’s only a matter of time before they start asking for a phone and social media and all that comes with it. And it’s only a matter of time before their friends may not have the same rules around technology and social media. One suggestion they made, and I’ve heard it from many places, is to surround yourselves intentionally with other families committed to similar technology rules. Make sure kids have friends who are held to similar expectations, like waiting until a certain age for a smartphone or for social media.
As always, if I can help in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out!