Social Media is a great way to keep in touch with family and friends. Many individuals enjoy sharing pictures, stories on the internet. However, keeping your information and practicing good digital citizenship is very important.
How can you practice being a good citizen on the internet while using social media?
-Be safe (don't share personal information)
-Do not comment unkind words to people
-If someone comments unkind words - you can report them to the social media app or remove them as a friend
-Sometimes people will comment things as a joke you can chose to ignore them if you like but if you feel its getting too serious get an adult to help navigate through the situation- parents, counselors or teachers can help
Below is a list of Safety Questions to ask yourself and a bonus tip: From Common Sense Media Education: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ Handout- Safe Online Talk Student Handout
They have a lot of information for kids and parents about social media and how to be safe and smart online.
If you develop a friendship with someone online, be sure to ask yourself the following questions:
• Has this person asked me to keep any information secret?
• Has this person flirted with me, or asked me about anything sexual?
• Has this person asked me about anything private?
• Have I felt pressured by this person to do anything?
• Do I feel untrue to myself — like I’m not sticking to my values — when I talk to this person? If the answer is “Yes,” then this friendship is risky and it’s time to stop talking to this person. You deserve better!
Bonus Tips If someone starts chatting with you about inappropriate topics or asks you to send a picture of yourself, end the conversation immediately. And never plan a face-to-face meeting with someone you met online without taking a parent or guardian along.