Social media has a powerful influence on how kids and teens view themselves and the world. Many children fall into the trap of comparing themselves to the influencers they see online. For some, that comparison can make them self conscious about their body and diet, often causing or aggravating disordered eating habits.

As a parent, you should be aware of these risks. Here are the dangerous connections between social media and eating disorders.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that cause severe disturbances in eating behaviors. The consequences can cause issues in your emotional and physical health. Eating disorders typically accompany negative body image or distorted perception of weight and shape.

Anyone can be affected by eating disorders — one study found that about 52% of girls and 45% of boys skip meals and engage in behaviors associated with eating disorders. Meanwhile, about 75% of girls and 70% of boys had at least one social media.

Social media can contribute to the development of eating disorders in several ways. Children and teens are of particular concern since the world around them heavily influences their development and choices.

The Influence of Social Media

Apps like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat have made it easier for people to compare themselves to others, often leading to a negative self-image. When your kids are constantly exposed to images of people that appear to have perfect bodies, it can harm how they feel about themselves. The photos they see are likely edited and filtered to create the look they put out there, setting unrealistic standards.

These altered images of reality can cause children to compare themselves and feel pressured to conform. Things get even worse when content creators promote unhealthy habits or lie about how they got the body they did.

Creators can promote unhealthy diets like fasting or drinks that encourage weight loss. These ads are dangerous to children vulnerable to developing eating disorders. Algorithms will note the content your kids engage with and give them more pictures and videos of the same style, creating more damage.

What You Can Do

Taking action to protect your children’s mental health and prevent them from being bombarded with harmful content is important. As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your children navigate the world. You can teach your children tips on staying away from harmful trends and being aware of how social media influences them.

These are some ways to take action:

Explain the importance of food

A diet full of whole foods is the best way to have a healthy body. Eating foods that nourish you help your skin and overall body stay as healthy as possible. Tell them how food fuels your body and remind them of the amazing things it does daily. You can make sure they have healthy options at home, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.

Be a role model

Your kids learn by example so it is important to model healthy behaviors you want them to have. Avoid negative self-talk about your own or others’ bodies. Kids will internalize the way you talk about weight, food and body image, so be cautious about what you say around them.

Set social media boundaries

Limit their amount of social media use per day. It can reduce how much they’re exposed to harmful trends and messages. Encourage your kids to unfollow pages that make them feel bad about themselves or promote false claims about their bodies. Also, suggest doing other things such as getting outside or doing other hobbies.

Talk openly

Allow your children to feel safe when talking about what they see on social media. Be non-judgemental and validate their feelings and concerns. Sometimes you might need to give them a reality check by reminding them what they see online isn’t always true.

Emphasize self-care

Remind your children to take care of themselves in all aspects. In addition to their physical well-being, it also includes being mindful of their mental and emotional state. Teach them self-care habits like journaling and taking time to relax. As an adult, you might not realize how much stress kids and teenagers are under these days.

The Bottom Line

Social media can greatly affect your children’s body image and play a role in developing eating disorders. Work together with your children to learn how to have a healthy relationship with their bodies and prevent social media from influencing them.

Author bio:  Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She strives to live a happy and healthy life with her family by her side.
Follow Cora on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Read how social media is making kids grow up too fast.

Kids today are more connected to their phones and technology than ever before! Parents who want to keep their kids safe need to take some simple steps to make sure their devices are used responsibly. Whether your child is just starting on a smartphone or already has years of experience, these 11 tips will help guide you through the process of keeping them safe.

This blog post will dive into how parents can set strong boundaries for their children, create rules around device usage, use parental controls as necessary, monitor online activity while also encouraging online exploration in moderation, and ensure software updates are kept up-to-date. Let’s get started!

Set up Parental Controls and Restrict Access to Age-Appropriate Content

As parents, we want to ensure that our children are safe and protected from inappropriate content online. Setting up parental controls and restricting access to age-appropriate content is one way to achieve this. By doing so, we can feel confident that our children are only accessing material that is suitable for their age and maturity level. It’s essential to have a frank discussion with your children about online safety and explain why these measures are in place. With the right setup and conversations in place, we can take the first step in creating a safe and positive internet experience for our children. Keep in mind, however, that parental controls are not foolproof and it is still important to be personally involved in how your kids interact online.

Monitor the Types of Apps Your Children are Downloading and Using

Children are spending more and more time on smartphones and tablets. While this can be a fantastic way to keep them entertained and help them learn, it’s also important to monitor exactly what apps they’re using. Apps like Snapchat, TikTok, Pinterest, and instagram contain inappropriate content or have in-app purchases that could lead to unexpected bills. So, as a parent or caregiver, it’s crucial to ensure that you keep tabs on what your child is downloading and using on their device. By taking a proactive approach to app monitoring, you can help your child stay safe and make the most of their digital experiences.

Install a Monitoring App  to Track a Cell Phone Location

To keep your children safe, it is beneficial to install a spy app that can track their cell phone location. This allows you to monitor where they are at all times and make sure they are not engaging in any activities that could put them in danger. Discuss this with them in advance so that they understand why these measures are necessary and necessary precautions need to be taken when using the device.  With the right tracking tools in place, you can ensure that your child is always safe while using their smartphone.

Teach Your Kids How to Recognize Online Predators

One of the most critical skills you can teach them is how to recognize online predators. These predators use social media, chat rooms, and other online forums to gain access to children. They are often skilled at manipulating their victims and making them feel comfortable, which is why it’s essential to teach your kids warning signs that someone may not have good intentions. Talk to them about the importance of not sharing personal information or photographs with strangers and encourage them to come to you if they ever feel uncomfortable about something they see or hear online. By empowering our children with the knowledge they need to stay safe online, we can help protect them from potential harm.

Install Anti-Virus Software on Your Children’s Devices

The internet can be a wonderful source of information and entertainment, but it also poses risks that we cannot afford to ignore. Installing anti-virus software on our children’s devices is a crucial step in keeping them safe. This powerful software can prevent viruses, malware, and other harmful programs from wreaking havoc on their devices and potentially exposing them to dangerous content. With the right antivirus software, we can rest easy knowing that our children’s devices are well-protected and that they can enjoy all the benefits of the internet without putting themselves at risk. Just be sure to keep the software up-to-date so that it can continue to provide the best possible protection.

Encourage Communication Between You and Your Child About Technology Use

With the prevalence of technology in our society, it’s more important than ever to establish open communication with your child about their technology use. By fostering a safe and honest space for dialogue, parents can gain valuable insight into their child’s online behaviors and offer guidance for responsible use. As children grow, their relationship with technology will evolve, making it all the more crucial to maintain ongoing conversations around online safety, privacy, and respectful online conduct. Encouraging a two-way dialogue allows both parent and child to feel heard and understood, leading to a more positive and informed approach to technology use. Discussing online safety regularly can also empower your child to make responsible decisions when navigating the digital world even when parents are not around.

Be Aware of the Digital Footprint Your Child Leaves Behind

With just a few clicks, our online activities can leave behind a digital footprint that’s hard to erase. For children and teens, this can be especially damaging as they are still exploring their identities and learning how to navigate the world around them. It’s important to talk with your child about their digital footprints —like photos or posts they share—and the consequences it could have on their future. Remind them that what goes on the internet stays on the internet and encourage them to think twice before sharing anything online, no matter how harmless it may seem. By being aware of the digital footprints they’re leaving behind, our children can make better choices when it comes to communicating online and safeguarding their privacy.

Model Good Technology Habits

Often, the best teacher is a good example. Kids look up to adults and tend to imitate what they see, so parents need to set a positive example when it comes to technology use. This means limiting the amount of time spent on devices, avoiding multitasking or texting while driving or engaging in conversation, and being mindful of our digital footprints. By modeling these healthy habits, we can teach our children the importance of responsible and respectful technology use—a lesson that will stay with them as they grow older. Also, give your child the freedom to explore their talents and interests. Encourage them to try different activities and be creative online — something that can help build their confidence and help them develop valuable skills like problem-solving and digital literacy.

Stay Up To Date On New Technologies

Technology is evolving rapidly and it can be hard to keep up. To stay ahead of the curve, parents need to be informed about new technologies and how they may impact their children. This can involve researching popular social media platforms, learning about the latest trends in gaming, or simply spending time talking with your child about their online activities. By staying aware of new technologies and understanding the potential risks associated with them, parents can equip themselves with the knowledge needed to help protect their children online. Even if your child is tech-savvy and knows the ins and outs of a particular platform, parents need to understand what their kids are doing so they can help guide their online behavior.

Establish Ground Rules for Technology Use

The way we use technology changes over time and it’s important to adjust our rules accordingly. Before allowing your child access to a device, make sure they understand your expectations and the rules you have set up. This could include setting time limits on device use, monitoring their online activities, and setting age-appropriate restrictions on content. Having a plan in place can help you keep track of your child’s device use and ensure they are using technology responsibly. Additionally, it’s important to explain the consequences of breaking these rules so that your child understands the importance of following them. Make sure to review the rules you have set up regularly and adjust them as necessary.

Teach them to Respect Others Online

Just as we would in real life, children must learn to be respectful online. Remind them that there is a person behind the screen, and encourage your child to think before they post or share something online. Talk to them about cyberbullying, explain why it’s wrong, and make sure they understand the consequences of their actions if they are found engaging in such behavior. Additionally, teaching your children how to respond if someone else is being disrespectful on an online platform can help them stay safe and protect their emotional well-being. Keep in mind that these conversations should be ongoing and age-appropriate, as children’s online activities are constantly evolving.

By being mindful of our use of technology, setting clear limits and expectations, staying informed on the latest trends, monitoring our children’s online activities, and leading by example, we can ensure that our kids are using technology safely and responsibly. By equipping them with the skills they need to navigate their digital world, we can empower them to make smart choices when it comes to their online behavior—allowing them to reap the benefits that technology has to offer without putting themselves at risk.  A lot of parents sometimes find it difficult to keep track of all aspects involved in keeping their children on a phone safely and it’s understandable. Technology can be a daunting topic but by following these tips, you can ensure your children are using technology responsibly and securely.

Today’s children are using technology more than ever. According to the CDC, kids ages eight to eighteen average 7.5 hours of screen time each day. There are many potential benefits to screen time, but too much time can affect your child’s emotional state. Moderating and monitoring your child’s tech usage can ensure that they develop healthy self-esteem while online.

Let’s examine the impact of tech use on children’s confidence and explore strategies for parents to find a healthy balance.

The Pros and Cons of Tech Use Among Children

Technology is a double-edged sword for children. Children can gain valuable educational opportunities through online learning resources, educational video games, and interactive educational websites. Online math games or language learning apps can help kids build their skills in a fun, engaging way.

Similarly, multiplayer video games allow kids to socialize with their friends and make new connections. Children can collaborate and work towards a common goal in games, which aids in the development of problem-solving and communication skills. Playing video games has also shown improved decision making skills.

Technology can also offer children opportunities for creative expression. Digital creative tools to help them develop their creativity, self-expression, and technical skills. Furthermore, tech can be used to explore topics that children are passionate about, such as science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) subjects.

However, negative impacts from excessive screen time have affect a child’s physical and mental health. They may begin to choose online time over physical play, leading to obesity, poor posture, and fatigue.

Moreover, social media can be a significant source of stress and anxiety for children. They compare their lives to those they see online, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

How Tech Use Affects Children’s Confidence

Excessive screen time can have many negative effects on children’s mental health. When many children’s games and websites are designed to be addictive, reducing screen time may feel like an uphill battle. But here are a few reasons it is vital to do so.

For one, if your kids are spending most of their time in front of a screen, they are not able to practice their social skills like they would during face-to-face interactions. This can lead to increased social anxiety in offline settings and leave your child feeling less confident in themselves.

An over abundance of time spent online has also been linked to feelings of isolation and depression, which aren’t conducive to building healthy self-esteem.

Social Media and its Impact on Children’s Confidence

Social media can be one of the most significant factors impacting your child’s confidence. Children who spend multiple hours per day on social media may develop a distorted sense of reality, expecting their “behind the scenes” to look like a picture-perfect Instagram page.

Your children may also come across content they are not ready to handle while on social media. Many social media sites have inadequate content filters, and your young child could be exposed to adult content, cyberbullying, foul language, or other inappropriate sites. While there are ways to protect your child on social media, the chances of them stumbling upon unsafe content are high.

Children on social media also compare themselves to both their peers and online “influencers.” There is a significant link between juvenile social media use and body dysmorphia, as young girls feel the pressure to look like the edited photos they see online.

All these factors can inhibit a child’s ability to develop healthy self-esteem.

Balancing Tech Use and Building Confidence in Children

It’s essential that parents find a balance between tech use and empowering your child to develop authentic confidence. Here are some strategies to help:

Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and increase confidence. Encourage your child to participate in physical activities such as sports, dancing, or simply going for a walk. Even a ten-minute walk around the neighborhood after dinner can make a dramatic difference.

Monitor Screen Time

Set limits on your child’s screen time and stick to them. Install an app that stringently enforces screen time limits – and make sure the app cannot be uninstalled without it notifying you. Engage your child in other fun activities to keep them away from their device.

Foster Socialization

Encourage face-to-face communication with peers, family, and friends. This can help build social skills and increase confidence levels. Set up weekend play dates at the park or organize a backyard barbecue with neighborhood kids.

Introduce Technology Gradually

If you’re hesitant about giving your child unlimited access to social media, consider giving them a phone without social media access. This can help ease them into the world of technology without overwhelming them. Or you may consider restricting them to only using one social media app of their choice. This will help cut down on the hours it takes to interact on multiple social media avenues.

Practice Positive Reinforcement

Encourage your child’s interests and celebrate their successes – even if they use their devices to achieve them. If your child is proud of a piece of art they created on their tablet, share their enthusiasm! By being their biggest cheerleader, you help to build confidence and self-esteem.

The Recap

In a nutshell, monitoring your child’s tech use is job one. Secondly, work to find a balance between productive screen time and building their confidence levels IRL. Although technology can be a valuable tool, it should never replace face-to-face communication, physical activity, or other confidence-building activities. With these strategies, you can help your children build confidence while still enjoying the benefits of modern tech.

Though it’s developmentally normal for children to lose their belongings, as a parent, you may be tired of almost constantly replacing or hunting down lost items. It’s never too late to start teaching your child to actively take responsibility for their possessions – and it may save you a lot of money and time down the road.

If you are considering giving your child a brand-new tablet or their first smartphone, you may be wary of trusting them with such a big (and expensive!) responsibility. In this article, we will discuss the reasons children are so prone to losing their things, how you can mitigate it, and how to instill responsible habits that your child will carry with them their whole life.

Why Children Lose Things

Children lose things for a variety of reasons, and it’s important to understand the root causes to help address the problem.

One common reason is the simplest: forgetfulness. Children have a lot on their minds, and it can be challenging for them to remember everything they need to keep track of. This forgetfulness can be compounded by a lack of organizational skills, which can make it difficult for them to keep track of their belongings.

Distraction is also a common culprit when it comes to lost items. This is one you can probably relate to as a parent – how many times have you set down your phone while distracted with another task, only to completely forget where you’d put it?

If your child is neurodivergent in any way, they may struggle with keeping track of their possessions as well. Children with ADHD are especially prone to forgetfulness and distraction – talk with your child’s pediatrician to find the best ways to instill responsibility. .

Teaching Children Responsibility

Responsibility is a skill that needs to be taught like any other. Effectively teaching your children to be responsible may seem like an uphill battle, but a few tried-and-true techniques will make it easy.

One of the most effective methods of teaching responsibility is modeling. When you model responsibility by taking care of your own belongings, fulfilling your commitments, and taking ownership of your mistakes, you implicitly teach your children how to be responsible and dependable.

Children learn by observation, and seeing you act responsibly inspires them to do the same.

Another effective method is introducing gradual, low-stakes responsibilities. Assigning tasks such as cleaning up their toys, making their beds, or helping with household chores can help children build good habits and learn the value of their contributions. Give lots of positive reinforcement to make sure the good behavior continues!

Determining Age-Appropriate Responsibilities

Determining age-appropriate responsibilities is a crucial aspect of teaching children responsibility. You want to set your child up for success, not give them an unrealistic challenge.

When it comes to introducing new technology, such as a tablet, smartphone, or laptop, it’s important to consider your child’s maturity level rather than just their age. Some children may be ready for the responsibility of owning and using devices at a younger age, while others may not be ready until they are older.

Before giving your child a new device, ensure that they understand the value and importance of the device, as well as the rules for using it. This includes when it can be used, how long it can be used for, what apps and websites are allowed, and what parental controls are in place. You want to give them clear and explicit expectations for using the device; this makes it easier to enforce boundaries later on.

Some children may not be ready for certain responsibilities, even if they are the appropriate age for them. It’s important for parents to recognize their child’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, a child who struggles with organization may not be ready for the responsibility of owning a small, easy-to-lose smartphone; however, they may do well with a tablet or laptop that stays in one spot all day.

What to Do When Something Breaks

No matter how responsible a child is, accidents happen, and things can break. It’s essential to have a plan in place for what to do when something breaks, whether it’s a toy, a piece of technology, or something else.

One option is to try to fix the item. Parents can teach their children the value of taking care of their belongings by involving them in the repair process and showing them how to fix things when possible.

Another option is to replace the item, either with a new one or a refurbished one. Refurbished technology, in particular, can be a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option for parents on a budget. Make sure you discuss with your children the financial implications of replacing broken items and involve them in the decision-making process after an item has been broken.

If the item broke due to carelessness or neglect, though, use it as a teachable moment. Your child may have to go without a tablet or smartphone for a few weeks while they earn back the item’s value through chores.

Conclusion

Remember that every child is different and may require different approaches to learning responsibility. Adjust your approach based on what works best for your child, and always work to set them up for success.

It can be frustrating when children repeatedly lose or misplace their belongings, but it’s important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. By modeling responsibility, determining age-appropriate responsibilities, and setting children up for success, parents can help their children become more responsible and appreciate the value of their possessions.