What you share is as important as how you share it.
Over sharing is an area that both kids and adults can be guilty of. It is important to understand what is appropriate and what crosses the line, digitally speaking.
A good challenge that is often heard is the Grandma Rule: “If it is something you wouldn’t say in front of your grandmother, chances are good you shouldn’t be sharing it online.” The same goes for a debatable photo.
Setting a good example
We are our children’s role models—both online and off, but what happens when the child watches the parent have a complete cyber-breakdown? What happens when a parent doesn’t live by the advice they would probably give their own child when it comes to online conduct?
Parents monitor their kids online, however kids snoop on their parents. It is only common curiosity; inquiring minds want to know—and parents should be aware.
Monkey see, monkey do
If you are cyber-gossiping chances are good your child will pick up your habits.
Years ago the cliché used to be, “in your child’s ears and out of their mouth.” Today the big concern is, “in their ears and on to the world-wide-web for everyone to know.”
Yes, the way we share news has changed dramatically and it is time we learn to respect ourselves and others digitally.
Building a blog together is a good place to start
Creating a blog together with your child is a great way to teach them how to make a digital space for themselves while building a positive online profile. You can maintain the page and help them decide what is appropriate for the world to see.
Blogs are colorful, expressive, creative, and most of all they tell the reader all about you!
So what will you blog about?
- Hobbies and interests: Do they have a favorite app or game? Do they love dance or sports? They can tell the readers about their favorite teams.
- Movie and book reviews: Have they seen any good movies? Read any good books? Post a picture of the book cover or a trailer of the movie.
- Visit a local restaurant? Anything they would recommend from the menu?
- Vacations, travels: talk about places they have visited.
- Summer Camps: Did they attend a summer camp or participate in a teen travel event? Share those experiences. Would they recommend them and why?
- Won any awards? Share them—be proud.
Keep it positive—be sure to use correct grammar and spelling and never use profanity.
Don’t waste a minute! Start your blog today!
What will you blog about? Do you have a blog? Share it with us!
