Allowing children access to the Internet and Social Media can be a daunting endeavor for parents.

Here are some tips to establish a healthy balance with your kids.

Common Adult Worries About Children Using the Internet

• Safety
• Inappropriate contact
• Bullying
• Privacy
• Addiction
• Impatience, immediate gratification
• Children will become lazy

The 5 E’s – Create an Internet and Social Media Contract

1. EXPLAIN

• Outline expectations
• Talk about technology before you buy it
• Set guidelines and rules for usage
• When, where, how long
• Make a plan (e.g., no devices at dinner, no charging in bedroom at night)
• Turn off notifications
• Discuss consequences for breaking the contract

2. ENGAGE

• Know what shows, apps, etc. your child is using and her passwords
• Talk about media use
• Discuss TV, movies, YouTube videos that your child uses
• Become her “friend” but don’t be an active “friend”
• Be open to discussing difficult topics
• Ask questions

3. EMPATHIZE

• It’s not easy to grow up in the current social media culture
• Your child is growing up in a public space without privacy
• Social consequences can be stressful

4. EDUCATE

• Prepare instead of always protecting
• Teach instead of tell
• Learn how to use the technology your child uses
• Have literacy conversations at home

5. EMPOWER

• Encourage your child’s creative media use (65% of children today will have technology related jobs)
• Share with your child interesting new apps and sites you find
• Sign your child up for internet/technology/media classes that interest her
• Teach your child new skills

For more information on managing children and technology, check out Common Sense Media here.

Content Created in Partnership with Seedlings Group

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