My tween daughter and her friends seem to find comfort in their phones, whether they’re clutching them tightly or stashing them in their back pockets. While their skills in typing and taking selfies often outpace mine, there are some important lessons I hope they’ll consider before diving deeper into the world of online sharing.
- Duck Faces – Not So Cool: Let’s be honest, the duck face trend is getting old. A few may not hurt, but variety is the spice of life. Please, try something new now and then!
- Cherish Your Memories: The trend of limiting your Instagram feed to just a handful of photos seems popular, but social media is a great way to document your journey. Don’t be so quick to erase your past.
- Embrace Who You Are: It’s vital to love and accept yourself. Always be genuine — you are smart, strong, kind, and funny just as you are.
- Self-Respect is Key: Remember, everything you post, text, or share can be seen by anyone. No romantic interest is worth risking your future or privacy. Your dignity matters!
- Cut Ties with Pressure: If someone tries to pressure you into sharing anything inappropriate, they don’t deserve a place in your life. #goodbye
- Support Your Friends: Your friendships are invaluable. Treat your friends with kindness; give compliments, ask for permission before sharing their pictures, and uplift them with positive comments.
- Be a Champion for Others: If you notice someone struggling, step up to help. Leave a kind comment or support them in any way you can. If you’re unsure how to help, just ask me. It’s essential to be remembered for your kindness, not just for scrolling through feeds.
- No to Rating: Asking for or giving ratings on Instagram serves no purpose. Just stop doing that.
- Use Your Voice Wisely: Your words hold power. Be kind and avoid excluding or hurting others.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, listen to that feeling. Your intuition is a powerful guide. Pause, walk away, or seek help if needed.
- Your Choices Matter: You are never obligated to participate in anything online that makes you uncomfortable, whether it’s group chats or memes.
- I’m Here for You: If you need advice, support, or just someone to listen, don’t hesitate to reach out. You’re handling a lot right now, and I want you to know you’re not alone.
- Mistakes are Okay: You won’t get in trouble for making a mistake, but honesty is crucial. Always feel free to talk to me.
- Quality Over Quantity: This applies to everything — followers, posts, and friends.
- Equality Among Peers: Remember, no one is better than anyone else. This isn’t harsh; it’s a reminder that everyone is important and deserving of respect. Act accordingly, or you’ll lose phone privileges!
- Lighten Up: Don’t take everything so seriously. A little laughter can turn things around.
While this list is tailored for girls, these lessons are universal. A world where tweens engage online with authenticity and kindness is a world I want to see.
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Summary
This article provides 16 essential reminders for tween girls about responsible online behavior. It emphasizes self-love, respect for friends, and the importance of listening to one’s instincts. These lessons aim to promote a positive online presence and foster supportive friendships.