As educators, we have observed a constantly changing digital environment. The rapid development of software, ease of access to technology and the highly unstructured nature and capabilities to be unsupervised online has led to students accessing social media at a younger age. 

 

Teachers in their line of work understand deeply, the psychological progression and natural cognitive functions of children according to their age. There is a definitive link between a child's cognitive function and the impacts that social media can have on a child's developing brain. Social media has the ability to expose the students to circumstances, material and opportunities that are considered far beyond the comprehension and the cognitive load a child can take on and process. This is why we have seen a natural increase in friendship issues and conflicts that occur online. Unlike us, the children of today are growing up in a time where the world is at their fingertips. As adults and educators, we have a duty of care to ensure our students are equipped to handle these challenges effectively and appropriately according to their age. 

 

Over the coming weeks, we will provide you with some helpful resources for you to explore as parents and caregivers. Our hope is that we can provide you with ample research based resources to ensure you are prepared to have conversations around the students participating positively in our digital world. 

 

Our first article for you to have a look at is called 'How Much is "Too Much" Monitoring Social Media Use in Children and Adolescents?'. This article will provide you with a deeper understanding of the link between child psychology and cognitive functioning and the use of social media. 

https://www.childdevelopmentclinic.com.au/social_media_use.html 

Regards,