Cyber Bullying: 10 Ways To Protect Your Child

As a new parent in Chicago, the joy of witnessing my little girl’s milestones is unparalleled. Like many, my instinct is to capture every precious moment – her first smile, her tentative steps, her babbling first words. Our phones are overflowing with photos and videos, and the allure of instant sharing with family and friends across the miles via social media feels like a natural extension of this joy. A quick post, and everyone can share in these wonderful moments. It seems like the perfect way to keep loved ones connected, right?

However, the heartwarming ideal of online sharing took a stark turn when Kyra Pringle shared a photo of her daughter, who has a rare Chromosome 2 Duplication. Tragically, that innocent picture was twisted and used to create cruel memes, highlighting the dark underbelly of social media and the potential for profound hurt.

This incident, along with other devastating examples like the story of Ashawnty Davis, a 10-year-old who tragically took her own life after a bullying video of her was shared online, and the 16-year-old who died by suicide after a private nude photo was leaked and spread through her school, forces us to confront a sobering reality. When we share online, we open ourselves and, more importantly, our children, to a global audience – an audience that includes not only supportive loved ones but also individuals who may be unkind, exploitative, or simply indifferent to the impact of their actions.

The Expanding Digital Landscape: Podcasts and the Rise of Influencers

Beyond traditional social media platforms, the digital landscape has expanded significantly with the rise of podcasts and the powerful influence of online personalities. Podcasts, readily accessible on various devices, can expose children to a wide range of content, both positive and negative. While many educational and entertaining podcasts exist, others may contain inappropriate language, harmful ideologies, or promote unrealistic expectations.

Furthermore, social media has given rise to a new generation of “influencers” who command the attention of millions, including children. These individuals, often perceived as relatable and trustworthy, can significantly impact children’s values, beliefs, and behaviors. From promoting consumerism to shaping perceptions of beauty and success, the influence of these online figures cannot be ignored. It’s crucial for parents to be aware of who their children are watching and listening to and to engage in conversations about the content they consume.

The Pervasive Threat of Cyber bullying

The ease of online communication has unfortunately also amplified the problem of bullying. Cyber bullying, which can take many forms – from spreading rumors and posting embarrassing photos to sending hateful messages – can be particularly insidious due to its anonymity, persistence, and wide reach. The examples of Ashawnty Davis and the 16-year-old highlight the devastating consequences that cyberbullying can have on young people’s mental health and well-being.

Who is Influencing Our Children?

As parents, we strive to be the primary influence in our children’s lives. However, in today’s digitally saturated world, their circle of influence extends far beyond our immediate control. It includes:

Peers: Online interactions with friends and classmates can significantly shape their social experiences and self-esteem.
Social Media Personalities (Influencers): As mentioned earlier, these individuals can impact children’s aspirations, values, and purchasing decisions.
Content Creators (YouTube, TikTok, etc.): The vast array of videos and content available online exposes children to diverse perspectives, some of which may be harmful or inappropriate.
Podcast Hosts and Guests: Audio content can subtly influence children’s understanding of the world and various topics.
Online Communities and Forums: Participation in online groups, even those based on shared interests, can expose children to both positive and negative social dynamics.
Advertisers and Marketers: Children are constantly bombarded with online advertisements designed to influence their desires and preferences.

Protecting Our Children in the Digital Age

Navigating this complex digital world requires vigilance and proactive measures. Here are some tips to protect your child:

Be Mindful of What You Share About Your Child: Before posting any photos or videos of your child, consider the potential for misuse or misinterpretation. Even seemingly innocent content can be taken out of context. Think critically about who will see it and the potential long-term implications.
Strengthen Your Privacy Settings Across All Platforms: Regularly review and adjust the privacy settings on all your social media accounts, as well as any apps your child uses. Ensure that your posts are only visible to your intended audience. Remember to check settings on both your mobile devices and computers, as they can sometimes differ.
Consider Limiting Public Sharing Altogether: As the original article wisely suggests, sometimes the most secure option is to refrain from public sharing altogether. Consider sharing photos and updates through private messaging apps, email, or even old-fashioned printed photos sent through the mail.
Engage in Open and Honest Conversations with Your Child: As your child grows, have ongoing conversations about online safety, responsible social media use, and the potential dangers of cyber bullying. Teach them critical thinking skills to evaluate online content and identify harmful interactions.
Educate Yourself About the Platforms Your Child Uses: Understand the features, privacy settings, and potential risks associated with the social media platforms, apps, and podcasts your child engages with.
Monitor Your Child’s Online Activity (Appropriately): While respecting their privacy is important, it’s also crucial to have an understanding of their online interactions. This may involve occasionally reviewing their social media profiles (with their knowledge and consent, depending on their age), being aware of the apps they use, and having open discussions about their online experiences.
Talk About Influencers and Online Content Critically: Help your child understand that what they see online is not always real or representative of everyone’s experiences. Discuss the motivations behind influencers’ content and encourage them to question the messages they receive.
Educate Your Child About Cyber bullying: Teach them how to identify cyber bullying, how to respond (e.g., not retaliating, saving evidence), and who to report it to (you, a trusted adult, the platform).
Foster Empathy and Kindness Online: Encourage your child to be respectful and considerate in their online interactions. Discuss the impact of their words and actions on others.
Be a Role Model: Your own online behavior sets an example for your child. Be mindful of what you share, how you interact online, and the amount of time you spend on digital devices.

As parents, our desire to share our children’s joy is natural and understandable. However, in this increasingly digital world, we must navigate the landscape with caution and awareness. By understanding the potential risks, engaging in open communication with our children, and implementing proactive safety measures, we can strive to protect them from the darker sides of the internet and help them navigate the digital playground safely and responsibly. Sharing our precious moments can still bring joy, but it must be done with a conscious understanding of who is truly watching and influencing our children.