Mom preps kids for social media ban: 'It's about dialogue'

As a social media ban for under-16s approaches, Cassandra Eames of Brisbane is proactively preparing her family for a summer offline. She views this period as an opportunity for a digital reset, anticipating a more connected family experience without constant screen engagement. Her strategy relies on ongoing, open discussions with her teenage children about online safety, algorithms, and responsible technology use.

Eames highlights that this consistent dialogue has empowered her children to handle uncomfortable online situations, such as unwanted messages. She believes a strong parent-child relationship, built on trust and active listening, is crucial for effective communication about digital well-being. This proactive parenting approach aims to equip her children with the skills to navigate the online world safely and confidently.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Alan Ralph concurs, emphasizing that inquisitive and explorative conversations are key to helping families adapt to the ban. He advises parents to create a safe space for genuine discussions, validate their children's emotions, and approach the topic collaboratively. By asking open-ended questions, parents can better understand their children's perspectives and concerns, fostering a shared understanding of the digital landscape.