Social media is deeply embedded in teen life. It’s not going away, and parents cannot fully shield their teens from it. Instead, the focus should be on educating, monitoring, and partnering with your child so they can navigate the digital world safely and healthily.

The Reality of Social Media

Social platforms offer real benefits:

• Ways to stay connected with friends
• Opportunities for self-expression and learning
• Access to supportive online communities

At the same time, they contain risks:

• Cyberbullying and negative interactions
• Exposure to misleading or harmful content
• Pressure to compare appearance, lifestyle, and achievements

These mixed effects are why social media requires thoughtful engagement rather than total restriction.

Start With Open Communication

Clear, ongoing dialogue about social media is critical. Discuss:

• What apps your teen uses and why
• How they feel during and after screen time
• What they encounter online that makes them uncomfortable

Avoid a purely authoritarian approach instead, listen and guide.

Set Boundaries Together

Families succeed when expectations are clear and collaboratively set:

• Agree on screen-free times (meals, bedtime)
• Create rules around device use in shared spaces
• Encourage breaks and non-digital activities

Screen time limits aren’t arbitrary; they help maintain sleep health, focus, and general well-being.

Monitor — With Respect

It’s reasonable to know which platforms your teen uses and how they use them. This doesn’t mean spying; it means staying informed and engaged.

Watch for signs of distress linked to online use mood changes, withdrawal, sleep issues and address them openly.

Step In When Needed

If social media use appears to negatively affect your teen’s mood, behavior, or overall mental health, intervene calmly but decisively. This might involve:

• Re-evaluating usage limits
• Taking temporary breaks from certain apps
• Seeking professional support if concerns persist

Helping teens develop healthy digital habits equips them with skills that extend well beyond adolescence.