VOICES

As parents today, accompanying our children as they venture onto the internet is a new component of child rearing. From the moment we post a child’s birth announcement on social media, their online life has started—well, before they can speak or walk. 

Understanding Digital Footprints 

A digital footprint consists of two types:

1. Active footprints

• Information we willingly share, such as posts, photos and comments.

2. Passive footprints

• Data that is gathered automatically while using the web, including browsing history and app use. 

For children, these traces begin with what we post and then add their own online behavior.

Start Early with Digital Literacy

1. Preschool 

• Restrict sharing personal information such as full birthdate, school name or location.

2. Primary School

• Introduce the concept of digital permanence.
• Set family rules for what is allowed to be shared online.

3. Secondary School

• Talk about how college admissions counselors and future employers view social media.
• Have them search their own name every now and then.
• Help them discover their online voice while being careful about the consequences.

Practical Steps for Parents

1. Be a good digital citizen.

• Children learn from what we do. Consider how your own sharing behaviors are shaping theirs.

2. Develop a family media agreement.

• Set expectations for online behavior such as what is appropriate to post about themselves and others.

3. Use privacy controls thoughtfully.

• Educate children to use social media privacy settings and go through them regularly with you.

4. Teach respectful sharing.

• Educate children on the value of seeking permission before sharing someone else's photos or details.

Keep in mind that controlling a digital life is not about creating an impeccable online image but rather making deliberate decisions that uphold your family's values and safeguard your child's future.

“Living in a Digital World” is a blog series which features Keys School Manila’s insights and tips on navigating digital tools which will allow students, teachers, and parents to uphold responsible media and technology literacy. This blog is the second in the series.