Should parents be Facebook friends with their kids?

Before the advent of social media, parents had an easier time keeping track of what their children did, the type of friends they kept as well as keeping the communication line open between parents and children. However, with the coming of technology, social network sites have fundamentally and rapidly changed those circumstances. Rather than maintaining […]

Before the advent of social media, parents had an easier time keeping track of what their children did, the type of friends they kept as well as keeping the communication line open between parents and children. However, with the coming of technology, social network sites have fundamentally and rapidly changed those circumstances.

Rather than maintaining the method of having open communication lines kids in the past had while growing up, most kids today turn to Facebook to spend that time. This can be attributed to the lack of time spent with children.

Social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have an increased popularity among all age groups (teens to adults). Though it may be important for parents to know how their children use the social media site as well as the rising number in its users, the question is “Should parents be friends with their kids on Facebook”? Lifextra finds out.

Isa Tijjani, a father of 6, says he doesn’t see anything wrong with parents becoming friends with their kids. “In any case, I have four children or do I say grownups who are all friends with me on Facebook. I get to see their friends and who they mingle with.” He added that sometimes he reads and corrects their posts as a way of encouraging them to be good writers. That way, he’ll be able to know the kind of words they use or speeches they make. “And if there’s any sign of hate language, I let them know about it immediately,” he says.

Concurring with Tijjani’s response, Agnes Ejiga Atuluku, a mother, agrees that parents should be friends with their children on social media platforms because it will help both parties to know each other better and understand the opinions of one another on certain issues when they come up.

Bashir Sunday Amuneni, believes that if parents are friends with their kids on social media, it could help the parents have a better understanding of their kids. “This can happen when they have an idea of their kid’s virtual and near influences.”

An article on kidshelpline.com.au with the title “Enjoying Social networking safely” advises parents to get involved. “Be aware of what your child is doing online. Become familiar with social network sites and explore them with your child or join up yourself to see how they work.  Be Facebook friends with your children.”

It adds “Then, also agree on clear expectations and rules – Agree on acceptable online behaviour, which sites are okay, and the amount of time they can spend online. Be aware that having lots of restrictions minimizes risk, but it also minimizes opportunity to develop skills and become resilient.”