TDT | manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
As more and more children have access to technology and social media, it is crucial that they are monitored on how they use the internet safely. According to Zain, over 30 percent of internet users are children.
In addition, the number of users in the kingdom increased by 50,000 between 2021 and 2022. Zain launched a social media campaign aimed at further raising awareness of child safety online. As more and more children use the Internet, they should be protected from inappropriate content, accidental disclosure of their personal information, illegal downloads, file sharing, spyware, viruses and cyberbullying.
According to ScienceDirect, children under the age of 11 who use online apps like Instagram and Snapchat are more likely to have trouble making personal friends. Many children who use social media from a young age develop friendships with users online, making it more difficult for children to form personal friendships.
Also, children are more likely to engage in online harassment by using social media from a young age, the study reports. Managing a child’s social media presence is vital, and limiting a child’s social media spending can reduce some negative effects of social media use at such an early age, the study adds.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many more children using technology and the internet, and Zain is now urging parents to be more aware of what their children are doing online. Speaking to the Daily Tribune, a teacher, who asked not to be named, said: “I think social media has led to a decrease in social interaction with children.
“I’ve noticed that parents regulate their children’s use of social media differently. Some parents allow their children to use social media as early as six years old, while others are not allowed to use social media or the internet.”
She added, “As children get older, it can be difficult to keep track of what they read and watch, and I urge parents to ensure their children are safe when using social media online.” It can be very difficult for parents be aware of what to look out for.
Science Direct reports that many children are exposed to cyberbullying, online predators, sharing too much information and dangerous viral trends when using the internet. If parents don’t monitor what their kids are interacting with on social media, it can be harder to manage their usage.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children use social media for two hours a day. Science Direct reports, “By practicing safe and healthy social media behaviors in front of your child, you can encourage them to do the same.”
