OLCHS Offers Parental Guidance For Managing Kids' Social Media

OAK LAWN, IL — As it becomes harder for parents to manage their children’s digital footprint, Oak Lawn Community High School is linking up with Think Kindness, an organization that works to inspire measurable acts of kindness in schools and communities around the globe.

Like many schools across the United States, OLCHS has not been immune to students unthinkingly posting thoughts and comments on social media that could be construed as threats. T.H.I.N.K. stands for “Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind?”

The OLCHS Social and Emotional Learning Community has put together a few reminders for parents to encourage their teenagers to T.H.I.N.K. before posting on social media.

1. Friend your child on all social media accounts. Most students have multiple usernames, one for family and one for friends.
2. Know your child’s password(s) and security code(s).
3. Share information about online dangers with them.
4. Remind your child to NOT friend or follow anyone without personally meeting that person, even if they have mutual friends. Your child should not be replying to DMs (direct messages) from strangers.
5. Watch for warning signs in your child and changes in their behavior which could be a sign of a negative online relationship.

• Are they withdrawn?
• Are they addicted to their device?
• Are they being secretive?
• Do they take their phone into the bathroom?
• Do they delete content?
• Do they receive messages at inappropriate times?

There are also ways to be preventative with your teenager.

1. Surprise them with a video chat or Facetime.
2. Text them and say “Hi!” Catch them off guard.
3. Use apps to limit their use which will also encourage proper rest.
4. Charge Devices in a family location, not in bedrooms.