How Social Media Supports Young People

How Social Media Supports Young People

While social media can present some risks, it's important to understand the benefits of giving your child the guidance they need to get the most out of social media. Below is a list of ways social media can be a good resource for children and young people.

Shared learning

Expanding connection and understanding with the world

Children can learn and appreciate different perspectives and worldviews to better understand the world around them and develop their knowledge of a wide range of topics.

With so many ideas shared across multiple platforms, they can explore areas of interest and use these platforms in an educational capacity.

Campaign for the good of society

Social media can help young people raise awareness of the specific causes they care about, allowing real impact to happen where they want to see it.

Digital media literacy

Develop communication and technical skills

With social media now a part of everyday life, it is important that children and young people learn to communicate online to prepare them for future opportunities in the workplace and support them in interacting with friends and family.

Mental health and well-being

Removing boundaries to develop connections

Social media removes the boundaries of meeting and keeping people together and creating bonds across borders. For children who may have a disability or don't feel like they can connect with others within their community, this can be a great way to connect with other people who share their ideas and interests.

Strengthen relationships

Access to family members who may live miles away from friends who have moved from the local area can help maintain relationships and allow them to stay in touch and share their lives easily.

A place to look for support

It can open up opportunities to offer support to friends and family who may have a particular problem. On the other hand, for some young people, it can be a place to go for support if they are going through something they can't talk about with their loved ones.

Create a positive digital footprint

Young people can also use their accounts as custom CVs to share their achievements, showcase their talents and create a positive online portfolio that can be useful later in life.

Check out our advice on what you need to know to help your child surf social media sites safely