Once you’ve gotten your kid a phone, should you start monitoring their social media? Some argue that it’s an invasion of privacy, while others insist that it’s necessary given growing concerns about cyberbullying and the negative effects social media can have on self-esteem.

This week at childmind.org, we take a deep dive into the ongoing debate around keeping a close eye on your teen’s social media use. And we provide tools and tips for monitoring their social media, should you choose to do so. We also discuss how to know when your kid is ready for a social media account and provide useful strategies for helping them get started. Additionally, we cover the potential negative effects of social media on teens and ways to shield them from harm. The internet can be an unforgiving place, so we talk about recognizing the signs that your child is experiencing cyberbullying and when to intervene. We also offer advice on enforcing healthy time limits for video games.

— Faith Wilkins, Senior Staff Writer | ✉