With an expected nearly 4 billion social media users in 2022, it’s safe to say that social media is a big deal in our society, and its use continues to grow. Many of us use social media daily, and it’s a foundational part of how we communicate with friends and loved ones. But there’s a dark side to social media, especially for kids and teens, and the new four-part Fox Nation series “Killer Apps” explores the dangers associated with these apps.
The series tells stories of algorithms that feed teens harmful content, influencers who lead “double lives” trying to show a rose-colored version of reality on social media, and content that can lead to feelings of comparison and be damaging to mental health—even contributing to suicidal thoughts and actions.
At Troomi, we believe that kids shouldn’t be exposed to social media until they are mature enough, and there are plenty of reasons why. Cyberbullies lurk behind screens, attacking others on social media, often anonymously. Social media algorithms can serve children pornography or other explicit content. Predators can find ways to contact victims over social media. Social media has even been linked to drug use.
What Can Parents Do?
It’s clear that social media can be dangerous at best and deadly at worst for our kids and teens. That’s why Troomi phones don’t have any social media apps. Children need to learn to use technology—there’s no getting around that. But we believe there’s a way to introduce them gradually and safely, sidestepping many of the pitfalls that can come with too much technology too early.
Troomi phones allow you to teach your kids about technology step-by-step at a pace that works for them and you. As you teach your child about technology, you can warn them of the dangers and teach best practices for keeping themselves safe. You can make a plan for helping your kids learn about what social media is and how to navigate it, and you can explain to them why it’s best for them to wait to get their own accounts.
As “Killer Apps” teaches, social media is not a safe space for our kids (and even us adults should be very deliberate and careful in our own use). However, like many dangers that threaten children and teens, we can help protect them by proactively teaching and guiding them. Check out Troomi today and start helping your children develop safe, healthy technology habits.
