Teenage Social Media – Safety and the Internet

The internet is such a wonderful tool for people today. Not too many years ago the internet was but a dream. People dreamed of being able to get on their computers and see things, get information faster, play games, communicate with people faster, etc. Those things are a reality in today’s world. There are so many things where the internet has become valuable and useful.

The internet, however, has its negatives also. People can spend too much time online. The amount of time spent online is astounding. Without boundaries, this can become an addiction. Screen time addiction is a real thing. Not only that, there are a host of other internet related things that can ensnare a person. As parents, we do not want our children to be addicted to anything, much less the internet.  Further, we want to watch over our children and warn them of life’s dangers. That includes the dangers of the internet. Educating and equipping them biblically is essential. Then, teaching them to live out their faith and witness for Jesus should be strongly encouraged. There is no better use for the internet and social media than to promote our faith and witness of Jesus Christ.

Questions to Consider

How are we representing Christ on the internet?

Are we living “virtually” for Him?

Are we living “virtually” for ourselves?

Do we have any accountability for our students and their social media devices?

Web Resources for Parents

https://www.ed.sc.gov/districts-schools/school-safety/resources-and-training/safety-resources/south-carolina-internet-safety-standards-2009/

https://www.psychguides.com/behavioral-disorders/computer-internet-addiction/

https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/video-game-addiction#1

Books

Biblically Handling Technology and Social Media: Applying Biblical Principles to Facebook, Texting, iPods, etc.  (Biblical Discipleship Ministries)

12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You (Tony Reinke)

The Teen’s Guide to Social Media & Mobile Devices (Jonathan McKee)