Navigating the internet today can feel like exploring a vast and unpredictable frontier, where excitement coexists with potential risks. As parents, it is crucial to offer our teens more than just vague warnings like “be careful” or “make good choices.” Instead, they require a structured framework that reflects our family values and ethics.
Recognizing this, I developed a social media agreement for my 13-year-old son, Alex. Shortly after allowing him to join Instagram on his birthday, he posted a photo that raised concerns among our family. After discussions with his older siblings, it became clear that we needed clearer guidelines. A written agreement would establish a mutual understanding without leaving room for debate—after all, a signed contract is indisputable.
Here are the guidelines we created:
- I will keep my social media profiles set to “private” at all times.
- I will refrain from posting images that focus on body parts. I will ensure that any photos I share showcase faces and convey respect for myself and my friends.
- I will avoid posting any sexualized content, including suggestive gestures or intimate situations. While silliness is acceptable, I recognize that the internet is not a suitable place for sexualized behavior.
- I will treat myself and others with respect in all my online interactions, avoiding actions that may mock, embarrass, or gossip about others.
- For safety reasons, I will not disclose my exact location in posts. For instance, I won’t share details like “I’m at the park with my friend and then heading home.”
- I will promptly inform a trusted adult if I receive any threatening or inappropriate messages or images online.
- I agree to avoid viewing pornography. I understand that, while curiosity about sex is normal, pornography is not healthy for young individuals and can have lasting emotional effects. If I inadvertently encounter such material, I will stop watching immediately. It’s important to remember that many individuals in those videos are experiencing distress.
- I acknowledge that anything I post online is permanent, even if deleted. Knowledgeable individuals can recover deleted content. In the future, potential employers, partners, and acquaintances may find everything I’ve shared.
- During family time, I will put away my devices, including my phone, to engage fully with my family members.
- I agree to occasional internet breaks if I show signs of needing one—such as irritability or a lack of interest in family activities. My parents may ask me to disconnect from the internet for a day or two.
- I will refrain from using any technology, including my phone, after 8:00 PM unless I have received prior permission.
- If I do not adhere to these guidelines, I understand that my social media access may be restricted for an indefinite period. My family loves me deeply, and these boundaries are established out of that love.
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Summary:
Establishing a social media contract for teens is essential for guiding them through the complexities of online interactions. By signing this agreement, teens commit to responsible online behavior, ensuring their safety and dignity in a digital age filled with potential pitfalls.
Keyphrase: Social media guidelines for teens
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