Key Takeaways

There are more ways to communicate online than most of us can keep track of, and they all have different features. One warning sign is your child constantly moving from one chat method to another.

Changing modes of chat can be a way of hiding conversations, raising questions about your child's perceived need for secrecy.

It's important for parents and kids to understand that "secrecy" online is an illusion

Dialogue Starters (questions to ask your student)

I know kids like to try a lot of different apps to talk with their friends, so how do you decide which app you want to use?

How much do you know about the specific risks of using disappearing messages? 

If you were talking with someone in one app, what reason would someone give for asking you to switch to another one?

Additional resources for parents

Family Media Agreement

Negative Effects of Snapchat for Teens

Negative Effects of Social Media & Screen Time: What Parents, Educators, & Students Need to Know

Conclusion

Disappearing messages may seem like a safe way for teens to communicate, but they can quickly lead to unintended risks that impact their safety, privacy, and well-being. As parents, understanding these potential dangers and talking openly with your teen can make all the difference. By staying informed about how these apps work and encouraging your child to consider the long-term effects of their online interactions, you can help them make smarter, safer choices.