Teaching Kids to Be Smart About Social Media
Neo Moshoeu • January 24, 2025
Social media has become an integral part of modern life, offering both opportunities and challenges for young people. While it connects us, inspires creativity, and provides access to valuable information, social media also carries risks, particularly for children and teenagers. Helping kids use social media responsibly is a vital task for parents and guardians in today’s digital age.
What Are the Positives of Social Media?
Social media can play a beneficial role in a child’s development:
- Learning Opportunities: Platforms like YouTube or LinkedIn expose kids to educational content and new skills.
- Creativity and Expression: Social media allows children to share their talents, whether through photography, writing, or video content.
- Connectivity: Kids can maintain friendships and build supportive communities around shared interests.
When used wisely, social media becomes a powerful tool for learning, growth, and personal development. It provides children with access to a wealth of information and resources that can complement their education, from tutorials and online courses to news updates and scientific discoveries (Department of Basic Education, 2023). Platforms like Instagram and TikTok can foster creativity, allowing young users to express themselves through art, music, or storytelling, while platforms such as LinkedIn or online communities can inspire career exploration and goal-setting from an early age (Smith & Johnson, 2022).
Additionally, social media enables cultural exchange by connecting young people from diverse backgrounds, broadening their horizons and fostering empathy and understanding (Doe, 2021). It can also serve as a platform for advocacy and positive change, empowering kids to raise awareness about issues they care about. In essence, when approached with intention and guided by healthy habits, social media can help children not only stay informed but also discover their passions, develop skills, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
What Are the Negatives of Social Media?
Despite the positives, there are potential risks parents should be aware of:
- Exposure to Inappropriate Content
- Cyberbullying
- Addictive Behaviour.
- Privacy Risks
What Can Parents Do to Help Make Their Kids Smarter About Using Social Media?
Parents play a critical role in helping kids navigate the online world safely. Here are a few practical steps:
- Open Communication: Talk regularly about the positives and pitfalls of social media.
- Lead by Example: Show responsible social media use yourself to set a good precedent.
- Educate About Privacy: Teach kids to avoid sharing personal details and to use privacy settings effectively.
- Monitor Usage: Use parental controls and keep an eye on their online activities without breaching trust.
Develop a Household Plan for Social Media Use
A family social media plan can establish clear expectations and boundaries:
- Set Age-Appropriate Rules: Decide when kids can join specific platforms.
- Time Limits: Establish daily screen-time limits to encourage a healthy balance of activities.
- Content Rules: Define what is acceptable to share online and what should remain private.
- Regular Check-ins: Have weekly conversations to discuss online experiences and any challenges they face.
10 Rules for Using Social Media Responsibly
Finally, here are 10 practical rules for children and teens to follow:
- Always think before you post.
- Respect others’ opinions, even when you disagree.
- Avoid sharing personal information like your address or school.
- Be cautious of strangers online.
- Report and block inappropriate content.
- Set strong passwords and never share them.
- Limit screen time to avoid overuse.
- Verify news and information to avoid spreading misinformation.
- Maintain a balance between online and offline friendships.
- Always communicate with a parent if something feels unsafe.
Social media can be a powerful tool for connection and learning when used responsibly. By fostering open dialogue, setting clear boundaries, and guiding children toward safe practices, parents can ensure their kids become smart, savvy social media users.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing. Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
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A Guide To Parent Teacher Meetings The new academic term has just started a few weeks ago, and families with school-going children are settling into their routines. However, as students transition back to the classroom, another important aspect of the school calendar looms, parent teacher meetings. While these meetings are integral to nurturing strong collaboration between families and schools, they can also bring a mix of emotions, from curiosity to unease, for parents. In South Africa, where over 12 million students attend public and private schools (Department of Basic Education, 2023), the importance of such interactions cannot be overstated. These sessions offer invaluable insights into a child’s academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. What Are Parent Teacher Meetings? Parent teacher meetings are structured conversations between parents and their child’s teachers, aimed at discussing the student’s academic performance, behaviour, and overall development. These meetings create an opportunity for open communication, ensuring that both parties can collaborate effectively to support the student’s educational journey. They are not just a platform for addressing concerns but also for celebrating achievements and setting shared goals. What Do They Entail at Crawford? At Crawford International, parent teacher meetings are designed to be more than just routine check-ins. They reflect our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with families. During these sessions, parents meet with teachers to gain a holistic view of their student’s progress, not only academically but also socially and emotionally. Teachers share personalised feedback, highlight areas of growth, and discuss strategies to address challenges. These meetings are tailored to align with our ethos of developing well-rounded students, emphasising collaboration to ensure every child reaches their potential. How Often Are They? Parent teacher meetings at Crawford typically occur once per term, although additional sessions may be scheduled based on specific needs or requests. Regularity ensures that parents stay informed about their child’s journey throughout the academic year. These consistent touchpoints help to build trust and maintain a steady flow of communication between parents and teachers. How Best Should Parents Prepare for Them? Preparation is key to making the most of parent teacher meetings. Here are a few practical tips: Review Reports and Notes – before the meeting, review any recent academic reports, test results, or communication from the school. This provides a foundation for meaningful discussions. Prepare Questions – jot down specific questions or concerns you want to address. For example, ask about areas where your child excels or struggles and how you can support them at home. Engage with Your Child – have a conversation with your child about their experiences at school. Understanding their perspective can provide valuable context for the meeting. Be Open-Minded – approach the meeting with a collaborative mindset. Remember, the goal is to work together with the teachers to support your child’s growth. Take Notes – during the meeting, take notes on key points discussed, including recommendations from teachers. This ensures you can follow through on agreed actions. Parent teacher meetings are more than a requirement; they are an investment in a child’s future. By approaching these sessions with preparation and a collaborative spirit, parents can play an active role in shaping their child’s educational journey. As families across South Africa embrace this vital part of the school experience, let’s work together to make each interaction meaningful and impactful.
