In this segment of our “Tween Tech” series, we delve into the popular social media platforms Instagram and Vine, which are widely embraced by children and adolescents. We will discuss how tweens and teens engage with these apps, what parents should know to monitor their usage, and the potential risks involved. Previous articles have examined platforms like Snapchat and Jott.
What Are Instagram and Vine?
Instagram, a photo and video-sharing app owned by Facebook, allows users to showcase their lives through images and clips. Vine, created by Twitter, is similar but focuses on short video snippets.
Why Are These Apps Popular Among Kids?
Both Instagram (often referred to as “Insta”) and Vine attract children for many of the same reasons they appeal to adults: they offer a fun, accessible way to express oneself through visuals. Features like filters and editing tools enhance creativity, while the feedback from followers—likes, comments, and shares—provides a sense of validation.
Why Parents Should Take Note
Many parents who restrict their tweens from using Facebook perceive Instagram and Vine as safer alternatives. While this may hold some truth under careful supervision, numerous parents, such as Sarah from my neighborhood, are often unaware of the underlying issues these platforms present, including cyberbullying, geotagging, and exposure to inappropriate content.
Usage Statistics
According to the Pew Research Center, 52% of teens aged 13 to 17 are active on Instagram, and 24% use Vine. Although it’s clear that many tweens engage with these platforms, it’s challenging to track underage users, as registration requires users to be at least 13.
How Kids Are Engaging
Tweens are sharing a wide array of content, from images of their pets and food to numerous selfies. Interestingly, a writer for The Washington Post discovered that her 12-year-old and peers were using Instagram to share their class schedules. Thus, Instagram has evolved into a significant social networking platform, akin to Facebook.
Monitoring Your Child’s Activity
If your child under 13 possesses an iPhone or a Wi-Fi-enabled device, consider linking their account to yours under the “Family Sharing” settings in iTunes. This setup requires parental approval for app downloads, making it easier to control access to Instagram and Vine. If you choose to allow them to use these platforms, ask them to set their accounts to “private” to limit followers and discuss what personal information is appropriate to share. Regularly check in on their posts and the responses they receive.
Reasons for Caution
While keeping accounts private and monitoring activity can mitigate risks, both platforms expose children to bullying—whether overt or subtle. The emphasis on popularity can lead to unhealthy comparisons, and inappropriate content is easily accessible. Even if you restrict access, children may still encounter undesirable material through shared links or group chats.
Moreover, both apps have direct messaging features, which can allow messages from users who aren’t approved followers—another area requiring your attention.
Conclusion
Instagram and Vine can offer enjoyable avenues for self-expression and social connection; however, it is vital for parents to engage in open discussions with their tweens regarding acceptable online behavior. Staying informed about their interactions is crucial, especially for younger teens.
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Summary
Instagram and Vine are increasingly popular among tweens and teens, offering creative outlets for self-expression. However, they also come with significant risks, including exposure to cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Parents should actively monitor their children’s activity on these platforms and discuss safe online practices to ensure a positive experience.