How to keep up with the kids online — and learn from them.

Posted on January 6, 2022 | By Fusia

Sometimes it seems like the world is moving at a faster and faster pace. Between news cycles and constantly changing digital trends, it can be hard to keep track of it all, including your kids’ behaviour online. Here are some tips on how you can expedite that process for yourself:

Ask where they’re hanging

While all the social media attention over the last decade has been on Facebook and Instagram, over the last couple of years kids have shifted to TikTok and SnapChat. Talk to your kids about what makes these particular apps special to them, and maybe consider joining them yourself.

Photo by Creative Christians on Unsplash

A lot of kids and teens treat popular social media content creators and influencers — and their communities of fans — as extensions of their personal friendships. Ask your children what kind of social media influencers they enjoy following and why to gain insights into what piques their interest.

For example, if they’re following lots of makeup gurus, sports creators or comedians, this can give you a better idea of what topics are of interest to them. Influencers that focus on mental health, family issues or social justice can also help you to have some harder personal conversations with your kids and learn what they value.

Ask your kids to share favourites

Don’t be afraid to ask your kids what they are watching and inquire about where they’re getting their information and entertainment. Do they have a funny viral video of the week that they can’t stop laughing about? As “uncool” as it may sound, ask them to show you what’s funny, and open up the conversation to things going on in their lives. Who knows, you may end up learning a lot more about your kid this way.

Learn to speak their language

Is it time to brush up on your digital skills? If you’re finding it hard to connect, try boosting your skills through free programs like ABC Life Literacy Canada’s Youth Teaching Adults. The program helps bridge the technology gap to let adults thrive in the digital world. From computer basics to tablet apps to social media, there are many unique resources to choose from that can help you to speak digital media more fluently. Learn more at youthteachingadults.ca.

(Source: NewsCanada)