Social media is often known for its short videos and viral trends, it has taken the world by storm, particularly among younger audiences. While platforms can be used for creativity, education, and entertainment, they can also comes with risks, especially when trends can encourage harmful behaviours. As a parent, it’s important to understand how to navigate these challenges and protect your child from the potential dangers of these trends.
Understanding Trends
Trends are typically viral challenges, dances, or activities that spread rapidly across the platform. Some trends are harmless, like learning a fun dance or sharing creative art projects. However, others can be dangerous, encouraging risky or even illegal behaviour. For instance, challenges involving physical stunts, consuming unsafe substances, or engaging in destructive pranks have raised serious concerns and consequences.
The problem lies in the app’s design, which rewards participation in trends with likes, comments, and followers. For children and teenagers seeking validation or a sense of belonging, the pressure to join in can be overwhelming, even if the trend poses a risk to their safety.
Why Children Are Vulnerable to Harmful Trends
Children and teens are naturally drawn to social media because of its engaging content and the opportunity to connect with peers. However, their developing brains make them more susceptible to peer pressure and less likely to fully consider the consequences of their actions. This combination of factors can make harmful trends particularly appealing.
Algorithm prioritise viral content, meaning that dangerous trends can quickly reach millions of users, including impressionable young viewers. Without proper guidance, children may feel compelled to participate to fit in or gain popularity.
Steps Parents Can Take to Protect Their Children
- Stay Informed About Trends
To protect your child, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest trends. This doesn’t mean you need to become an expert, but having a general awareness of what’s happening on the platform can help you identify potential risks. Follow reliable news sources or parenting websites that monitor social media trends to stay informed.
- Open Communication
Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their online activities with you. Encourage them to share the content they enjoy and talk openly about any trends they encounter. By fostering trust and understanding, you can guide them without appearing overly controlling.
Use these conversations to discuss the difference between safe and unsafe trends. Help them understand the potential consequences of participating in harmful challenges, such as physical injury, emotional distress, legal trouble or in some cases death.
- Set Clear Boundaries
Establish rules for social media use, such as limiting screen time and setting age-appropriate guidelines for content. Use parental controls, which allow you to manage your child’s account settings, restrict inappropriate content, and control who can interact with them.
Encourage your child to think critically before participating in any trend. Teach them to ask questions like:
- Is this trend safe?
- Could this hurt me or someone else?
- Would I be comfortable explaining this activity to my parents or teachers?
- Monitor Their Online Activity
While giving your child some level of independence is important, keeping an eye on their activity is equally vital. Regularly check their “For You” page to see the kind of content they’re exposed to. You can also review their liked videos and the accounts they follow to understand their interests and online influences.
- Educate Them About Online Risks
Many children don’t realise how dangerous some trends can be. Take time to educate them about the risks of:
- Physical harm from dangerous stunts.
- Mental health impacts from comparing themselves to others or facing cyberbullying.
- Privacy breaches from oversharing personal information.
- Legal consequences of participating in illegal or destructive challenges.
By equipping your child with knowledge, you empower them to make safer decisions online.
- Encourage Creative and Positive Use
Redirect your child’s attention toward the positive aspects of social media. Encourage them to participate in creative trends that align with their interests, such as art, music, or educational content. Celebrate their efforts when they use the platform responsibly, reinforcing positive behaviour.
- Lead by Example
If you use social media platforms, model responsible behaviour. Show your child how to engage with content thoughtfully and avoid harmful trends. By setting a good example, you can inspire them to do the same.
- Involve Trusted Adults
If you’re unsure how to address certain topics or trends, involve teachers, counsellors, or other trusted adults in the conversation. They may have additional insights or resources to support your efforts.
Recognising Warning Signs
Even with safeguards in place, it’s important to watch for warning signs that your child may be engaging in harmful behaviour. These may include:
- Sudden changes in behaviour, such as secrecy or irritability.
- Unexplained injuries or physical marks.
- Increased screen time, especially late at night.
- Avoidance of conversations about their online activities.
If you notice any of these signs, address your concerns calmly and directly. Seek professional help if needed, especially if your child’s behaviour becomes dangerous or self-destructive.
Final Thoughts
Social media can be a fun and creative outlet for children, but it also presents risks. By staying informed, maintaining open communication, and setting clear boundaries, you can help your child navigate the platform safely. Remember, the goal isn’t to ban social media altogether, but to equip your child with the tools they need to make responsible choices in the digital age.
With guidance, they can enjoy the benefits of social media without falling victim to its pitfalls.