Questions to prompt discussion with students:

Parents and Teachers: View the full Facilitation Guide Here

Dialogue Starters:

Parents of Elementary School Students (to ask students)

• Using words wisely
  • In some ways social media is not that different from conversations you have with your friends at lunch or recess. What are some ways kids can be positive and uplifting in what they say?

Parents of Middle School Students (to ask students)

• Keeping an open dialogue
  • How do you feel about the expectations we’ve set as a family, and are there any objections or future changes you’d like to talk about? 

Parents of High School Students (to ask students)

• Digital Citizenship
  • Knowing social media has pros and cons, what are some examples of positive things you’ve seen or posted on apps, and what are some negative examples?

Additional Resources

• Positive Effects of Social Media for Students
• Parental Control on Student Devices: What Parents & Educators Need to Know
• Making Screen Time Fun While Reducing the Negative Impact

Conclusion

Students have been told time and time again that social media can have a negative impact on their lives, but they rarely hear about the ways that it can benefit them or positively impact their mental health. From creating a more dynamic college resume to building communication and online editing skills, social media can create plenty of positive opportunities for students.

While it’s important for parents to talk about the dangers and risks of being online, it’s also important for kids to understand the positives of social media. When kids understand the negatives and positives of social media – and regularly talk to their parents about them – they will be better equipped to use social media wisely.

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