The popularity of social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter has exploded. As teens spend more time online, parents may be struggling to connect. The following tips and techniques will help parents learn how to use social networking websites to improve communication with teens.
Ask Questions and Show Interest
Teens may be eager to share their knowledge and experience with a parent. Good conversation starters include questions about how to use social networking sites to follow friends and famous people online. Never underestimate how much teens really do appreciate a parent who cares (even if they don't show it)!
Going Online Together
Once the communication lines are open, set aside some time once a week to work on an online project together. Choose a simple idea from the list below to get started:
- Search for family members on Facebook
- Lesson for parent on how to use Twitter
- Read blogs on teen subjects
- Watch funny video clips on YouTube and post comments
Longer-term projects to do with teens include:
- Develop and update a family blog
- Upload photos and video clips to Facebook
- Start a group for the family on a social networking site
The Educational Value of Social Networking Sites
A 2008 study by the MacArthur Foundation showed social networking websites do offer some educational value for teens. As a parent, encourage teens to use social networking sites to complete school assignments:
- The benefits and dangers of social networking sites
- Writing about how a famous personality uses social networking sites
- Comparison of talking, e-mail, text messaging and tweeting as methods of communication
- How the music industry is using social networking to reach out to fans
Communication Not Working?
In How To Oversee Your Teen's Blog or Social Networking Page, Denise Witmer suggests parents obtain passwords for social networking sites and check up on teens' online activity. If the tips and techniques above are not successful, it may be time to monitor online activity. Teens may be involved in activities parents do not approve of, and will be less willing to share their activities online. A strict monitoring approach can quickly shut down communication, so be tactful. Remember that teenagers have individual personalities, and some may just be more quiet.
Keep the Connection Going
Online networking sites are not a replacement for face-to-face communication, and dangers do exist when teens go online. With the right level of involvement, teens and parents can benefit from social networking websites. Improve communication by getting involved with online projects. Explore new technology with teens, instead of watching from a distance. Learn how to tweet on Twitter or create a Facebook page to connect with other parents. Soon parents will be hooked too!
Jule Rizzardo - Jule Rizzardo is a freelance writer, specializing in small business advertising and management skill development.
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