During social isolation, many kids and their families have attributed social media for keeping them sane, and connectivity is an undeniable benefit of today’s technology. With 95% of teens having access to a smartphone, they can communicate with friends and family, be entertained, learn about news as it happens, and express their creativity all with the tips of their fingers. But the downside of social media is always lurking just beneath the surface.

The Mayo Clinic reports tweens and teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are vulnerable to mental health problems, sleep disturbances, and unrealistic perceptions of the real world. Other dangers include cyber predators and cyberbullying that can produce devastating effects.

Though the enormous power of social media over youths may seem overwhelming, parents remain the most significant influence in their children’s lives, and internet safety is possible. Below are steps you can take to educate and protect children:

Have open, honest, and age-appropriate discussions about the positive and negative effects of social media. Without passing judgment, encourage your child to share their feelings about social media and their experiences.
Set reasonable limits for the amount of time spent on social media and stay consistent.
Encourage your child to sign an agreement not to share personal information like phone numbers, addresses, personal emails, or photos that could be considered provocative online.
Remind them the Golden Rule applies online as well as in-person and that once they hit “enter,” its permanent.
Advise them you want to “friend” them on social media platforms to monitor their safety while pledging never to post anything without their permission.
Support your child’s self-confidence and understanding that when others portray their lives as perfect, it’s never an accurate picture.

For more helpful tips, check out the resources below: