This reality is increasing the obsession that our society has for social networks and for obtaining more 'likes' in their virtual life (acquaintances 'I like'). Sometimes even adolescents and adults are aware of social networks when they publish content (video, image or text), just to know the impact it has had on their contacts. This can become obsessive and generate personality problems, like insecurity or dependence. This is why it is necessary to raise safe children so that they do not fall into this excessive obsession.
With all this, it seems that people's self-esteem is wrapped in their digital presence. People who have more followers seem to be more important ... But nothing is further from reality, we are all still people regardless of the virtual influence we have. Real life is the one that matters the most when push comes to shove.
Parents can find it difficult to get children to participate more actively in real life, to make sure that they are learning things that really make them feel whole, that they develop successfully, with confidence outside of the virtual world. New technologies have their advantages, That is clear, but it is also necessary to raise children without that technological dependence that has absorbed so many.
Children can make the mistake of measuring their personal worth depending on the 'likes' they receive on their social networks. It is important that parents understand that the digital world of their children is in their present and that it is necessary to raise them with the necessary tools so that physical reality is not lost.
Parents should not make the mistake of banning all social networks at home, this is not the solution either. Children must learn to prioritize without restrictions, learn to get out of the digital world to enjoy the present. Parents need to educate their children so that they have enough tools for safe and responsible digital use. For this it is important to integrate the Internet and social media in the lives of children, but in a positive way.
How to raise safe children in this society obsessed with 'likes'
Establish rules
Children and adolescents need to have clear rules regarding the use of social media and new technologies. There should be a limited time to also spend as a family. For example, social media should not be used if:
- It is eaten as a family
- Going on a family outing
- When the use of the devices at home exceeds two hours
Children and adolescents must learn that their lives should not be based on exposing what they do or what they do not do on social media. Life is much more than what a screen shows.
Guide children in the good and bad uses of social networks
It is important for parents to recognize the value of media to children and adolescents, including social media. It is another world in the children's lives and it affects them too, That is why you have to avoid judging or criticizing it all the time, it is better to teach skills of use and management of social networks.
You should be a good example of correct use of social networks, speak in a positive way about the uses it can have and establishing rules so that children learn how to use it without becoming toxic. For example, if you see an inappropriate image of someone else or a celebrity on Instagram, You can start a conversation about it to talk about the morality that comes with it.
Sometimes talking about other people's examples (always with respect) is more effective for children to think and reflect on their own behavior. In this way they will be able to enhance their critical thinking towards the use of social networks.
Improve communication skills (in person)
Many people feel very brave writing behind a screen, in the distance. But then these same people face to face lose all that courage. It is necessary to emphasize that children need to learn to manage the things that happen in their life without being behind a screen.
When children experience conflict with other people, parents should guide them through difficult conversations with that person. It is uncomfortable and difficult, but they must learn to accept and overcome the fear that can arise in different life circumstances. Children must learn communication skills, and the only way to do this is through practice.
Strengthen character
It is difficult for children to appreciate and value things when they only give 'value' to the 'likes' they have on their social networks. But it is important that children are trained and that they feel proud of the effort they have put into something they have done without depending on the validation of others to feel good about themselves. That external dependence must end, they must know what they are worth without needing the approval of others.
Children must work on their self-esteem with internal and external measures such as that of their parents. Parents should praise their children's strengths that represent effort, integrity, perseverance, and honesty. Even social media can be a tool to highlight the strengths of character in children, when they show that the 'likes' do not affect them.
What is really valuable for children is that parents comment in a positive way whenever they see those character traits important for their development. For example, if you are watching a game of a sport that your child likes with him and you see how a player shows good sportsmanship, highlight how he does the right thing even if no one is watching. You can also use everyday activities to show the same.
How do you manage to educate your children without being obsessed with 'likes'?