This article is part of our “Tween Tech” series, which explores the social media platforms that are most popular among children. Be sure to check out our previous pieces on apps like Jott, Snapchat, Instagram, and Clash of Clans.
Overview:
Launched in 2004 as a networking tool for Harvard students, Facebook has evolved into the largest social media platform globally, boasting around 1.49 billion users as of mid-2015.
Why Kids Love It:
Many children are aware of Facebook long before they actually create their accounts. They’ve seen their parents share memories online, making Facebook a familiar space. Because parents often feel comfortable using Facebook, it frequently becomes the first social media platform that children join. Research shows that two-thirds of kids who use only one social network choose Facebook. Its accessibility on any Wi-Fi-enabled device adds to its appeal.
Despite claims that Facebook is losing popularity among younger audiences, the statistics tell a different story. While tweens may explore other platforms, Facebook remains the frontrunner. The more friends that join, the more enticing it becomes for others to sign up.
Why Facebook Matters:
Facebook often serves as the “gateway” to social media for tweens. It provides a relatively secure environment for them to learn about online interactions, fostering skills that they can apply to other platforms in the future.
Usage Statistics:
According to a Pew Research Center survey, 71% of kids aged 13 to 17 engage with Facebook. Since the platform requires users to be at least 13 years old, we lack comprehensive data about younger users.
How Kids Use Facebook:
From my conversations with tweens and teens, their usage mirrors that of their parents: sharing photos, memes, interacting with friends, and enjoying entertaining content like cat videos.
Monitoring Your Child’s Activity:
A practical approach for parents is to create their own Facebook accounts and connect with their child as friends. While this isn’t foolproof—determined tweens can easily conceal their activities—it’s a good starting point. Before you start engaging with your child online, establish some guidelines about your interactions. For instance, while posting a birthday message might be acceptable, avoid commenting on every conversation they have with friends. If any concerns arise about their posts, address them privately rather than on the platform.
Finding Balance:
Be prepared for the possibility that your tween’s posts may be annoying to you, just as your comments may frustrate them. If needed, you can choose to “unfollow” their updates, allowing you to remain aware of their activities while minimizing your direct engagement.
Why Parents Can Breathe Easier:
Compared to platforms like Snapchat, Facebook presents fewer risky behaviors and is easier for parents to supervise. Since many parents have their own Facebook accounts, they’re more familiar with its functionality than they might be with other apps. This familiarity allows for better guidance as children navigate their online interactions.
Additionally, Facebook provides various privacy features that help control what kids see and share. They can choose their friends, hide posts, and adjust privacy settings. It’s essential to review these settings together with your child to ensure they’re appropriately configured. This also opens the door for discussions about what is suitable to post online.
Potential Concerns:
Tweens can quickly learn how to limit their audience on posts, meaning that parents shouldn’t assume they see everything their child shares. Direct messages and private groups provide avenues for conversations that parents may not be privy to. The only way to monitor these interactions is by reviewing your child’s account directly. Private groups can be found on the sidebar, and messages may be accessed through the chat icon. However, these can be deleted easily. A determined child might even create a secret profile. The best safeguard remains clear and ongoing communication about expectations and online safety.
Other common challenges that tweens face on Facebook include exposure to negative comments, feelings of exclusion from social events, and the pressure to accumulate likes or friends. Sharing your own experiences can help your child navigate these complexities.
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In summary, while Facebook can be a valuable tool for tweens to connect and learn about social media, parents must stay engaged and maintain open dialogue to ensure a positive experience.