7 healthy habits for social media use for you and your kids
Is social media really that bad or do you just need healthy boundaries?
Social media use can get a bad rap. But is it really that harmful or do you just need to set healthy boundaries?
If you’re a parent, it may seem like your kids are glued to their phones. They’re constantly getting pinged about the latest TikTok dance, the newest Snapchat filter or funny Instagram Reel.
“For parents, remember that our children are looking to us as role models demonstrating healthy behaviors, so these social media tips are good for the whole family,” says Serena Black, MD, pediatric hospitalist at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center in Eugene, Oregon.
Try these tips for using social media and news in a healthier way.
1. Scroll apps or sites with purpose
Maybe you or your teen use social media to share creative things you’re working on. If so, use it only for that. Log off after you've shared your work.
When it comes to news, it's important to know what's going on in the world. But do you need to keep an eye on the headlines all day? Maybe a check-in once a day is enough.
“Like all things, healthy social media use requires balance and moderation,” Dr. Black says.
2. Understand your feelings about what you see
Does seeing what friends are sharing make you happy? Or does it make you feel down? Pay attention to how you feel the next time you’re on social media, then decide if you want to make some changes.
3. Avoid comparisons on social media
People filter what they share on social media in order to tell a specific story about their life. Usually, that story is a shiny one. For example, you might see tons of pictures of the great things your friend saw and did on a weekend road trip. But you’re not likely to see pictures of the three times she got carsick during the drive. Even if what you’re seeing is true, remember that it’s never the whole story.
4. Manage access to apps to reduce distractions
Turn off notifications. Choose to find the information you want when you're ready for it, instead of letting it find you. Parents may also want to set up filters on their kids' phones to limit what they can access and set boundaries on screen time.
If you want to follow current events, sign up for “news roundup” emails. These typically include only the top headlines or summaries of the day’s events.
Finally, unfollow or hide feeds and profiles that stress you out. And don’t feel bad about doing it. You can still be informed without absorbing all the info that comes your way.
5. Follow the good stuff
Let's face it, the news can feel heavy. Try to find balance by focusing on things that make you happy. Check out social media accounts that focus on your interests or on things that make you laugh. For example, you could follow accounts that post only videos of adorable baby animals. If that's not your thing, no problem. Search for something that makes you happy and see what comes up.
6. Hop on the trends that promote bonding and exercise
“If used in the right ways social media can be a powerful tool to get kids interested and engaged in being challenged and being active,” says Dr. Black. For example, you could get your family to try one of the dance routines that are all over TikTok and Instagram. It’s a great way to bond and get exercise at the same time.
7. Step away from apps or electronics
Make time to disconnect. Close your apps and turn off the TV. Read a book, get outside, draw, call a friend. Try your hand in the kitchen with these healthy recipes. It doesn't matter what you choose to do. Just make sure it's something that feels supportive and worth your time.
