Addressing the Dangers of Social Media with Your Child

As Christian parents, we have a God-given responsibility to guide and protect our children, including in their use of social media. While these online platforms offer some benefits, they also pose significant risks to our children’s spiritual, mental and emotional well-being. As parents, we must be proactive and vigilant in monitoring our kids’ social media activity. Here are some biblical principles and practical tips to help navigate this challenging area of parenting.

Biblical Basis for Parental Monitoring

God’s Word makes it clear that parents, and fathers in particular, have the primary duty to raise their children in the “discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We are to diligently teach our children God’s commands and talk of them as we go through life together (Deuteronomy 6:7). This certainly applies to our kids’ use of technology and media, which are powerful influences in their lives.

The Bible also warns that “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). On social media, our children can be exposed to worldly philosophies, sexual temptation, cyberbullying, and even online predators. As parents, we must be aware of who our kids are interacting with online and what content they are viewing. While we cannot completely shield them from every negative influence, we should still establish wise boundaries and stay actively engaged.

Proverbs 22:6 instructs, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Monitoring and guiding our children’s social media use is part of this training process. We want to prepare them to use these tools responsibly and with discernment, grounded in a biblical worldview.

Communicating Expectations

It’s crucial that we communicate our family’s expectations and values regarding social media up front, before problems arise. Sit down with your child and explain your concerns as well as the benefits of these technologies when used appropriately. Make sure they understand that having a social media account is a privilege, not a right, and that you will be holding them accountable.

Consider developing a written social media agreement that clearly spells out your family’s guidelines. It should cover things like:

• Time limits and restrictions on use (e.g. no social media after 9pm on school nights)
• Types of content that are off-limits (e.g. pornography, excessive violence)
• Rules for interacting with others online (e.g. no cyberbullying, no communication with strangers)
• Privacy/security basics (e.g. never share personal information like address, phone number)
• Consequences for violating the agreement

Have your child sign the agreement to confirm their understanding and commitment. Periodically review the guidelines together and make adjustments as needed.

Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools

Various parental control tools and monitoring software can aid your efforts to keep tabs on your child’s social media use. These may allow you to view your child’s posts and messages, limit time spent on apps, restrict interactions, and block inappropriate content. Some popular options include:

• Bark – Monitors texts, email, YouTube, and 30+ apps/social media platforms for signs of issues like cyberbullying, sexual content, suicidal ideation, threats of violence, and more. Sends alerts to parents when potential concerns are found.
• Covenant Eyes – Mainly focused on protecting against pornography, it monitors devices and sends a report of concerning activity to parents. Also allows setting time limits on app usage.
• FamilyTime – Lets parents track kids’ location, manage apps, view usage history, set time limits, and block inappropriate content on phones/tablets.

While these tools can be helpful, they are not a substitute for relationship, discipleship and ongoing dialogue with your child. Technical controls have their limitations. Focus first on building trust and helping your child understand your heart behind the monitoring.

Modeling Healthy Social Media Use

As parents, we must practice what we preach when it comes to our own social media habits. Let’s be honest – adults can easily fall into unhealthy patterns online too. Our kids are watching and taking cues from us. Are we modeling Christ-like conduct in our posts and interactions? Are we exercising self-control in the time and attention we devote to social media?

Consider taking a social media fast as a family, and use that time to discuss the benefits and pitfalls you each experienced. Commit to staying engaged with one another in real life and not letting virtual connections take precedence over family time. When you do use social media, find ways to glorify God, share your faith, and encourage others.

Discipling Kids in Discernment

Ultimately, our goal is not just to restrict our children’s social media use but to train them in wisdom and discernment. We want them to learn to filter everything through the lens of Scripture and make God-honoring choices, even when we’re not watching

Look for natural opportunities to discuss biblical perspectives on issues they encounter online – identity, sexuality, friendship, materialism, and more. Ask questions about their experiences and listen to their thoughts and concerns. Pray together for God’s truth to shape their minds and hearts.

As your child demonstrates responsibility and maturity, gradually allow them more freedom in their social media use while still maintaining appropriate oversight. The training wheels may come off slowly, but our prayer is that they will stay grounded in Christ and use technology as a tool for His glory.

While the world of social media can feel daunting, we can take heart that God is still sovereign over our families. As we commit to training our children in righteousness and keeping vigilant watch over their online activities, He will guide and equip us for this sacred parenting task. May we be found faithful in discipling a generation who shines the light of Christ in both the real and virtual world.