This age group are usually very active users of the internet, and see it as an essential part of their everyday lives. They might use expiring content because it’s fun, it’s easy, it’s exciting and it gives them the opportunity to share content they might not want permanently on their profile.
Top tips:
- Keep an open dialogue – Reassure the children you work with that they can always come to you if they have any questions or worries about something that has been shared online, even if it has disappeared or expired.
- Encourage thinking before posting expiring content – For adults and children alike, it’s important to ask: am I happy for anyone online to see this? Remind the children you work with that just because something expires, doesn’t mean it disappears and that someone can screenshot and share it on. This is also a great opportunity to remind children about the importance of keeping personal information safe online.
- Report any inappropriate behaviour – Most social media platforms will have reporting and blocking tools which a young person can use if anything worries or upsets them within a game. Explore these buttons together and encourage young people to use them and always give as much information and context when filling in a report
- Promote positivity – Encourage children to use expiring content in a positive way. This could be sending a funny selfie to a friend from school or wishing someone they know a Happy Birthday!