In today's digital age, social media plays a significant role in our lives, especially for young dancers who often use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to share their passion, connect with peers, and follow their favourite artists. While these platforms offer wonderful opportunities for creative expression and community building, they also come with risks that parents or guardians must be aware of to keep their children safe online.

Here are some key tips and strategies to help you guide your child in navigating social media safely and responsibly as a dancer.

1. ADJUST Privacy Settings

Privacy settings are the first line of defense on social media. Teach your child how to adjust the privacy settings on their profiles to control who can see their posts, stories, and personal information. Encourage them to keep their accounts private, meaning only approved followers can view their content. Additionally, remind them to be cautious about sharing their location or any personal details that could reveal too much about their whereabouts.

2. Monitor Online Interactions

While it’s important to respect your child’s independence, monitoring their online interactions is crucial. Regularly check in on their social media activity, paying attention to who they are interacting with and the nature of these interactions. If you notice any suspicious or inappropriate behaviour, address it with them immediately. Establishing open communication with your child about their online friends and followers can also help you stay informed without being overly intrusive.

4. Discuss the Risks of Oversharing

Young dancers may not always understand the long-term consequences of oversharing online. Talk to your child about the risks of posting their daily routine as well as the school or dance studio they attend. Emphasise that once something is posted online, it can be challenging to permanently remove it.

3. Encourage Positive Content Sharing

Social media serves as a form for self-expression which many young dancers use to share their routines, performances, and achievements. Encourage your dancer to share positive, uplifting content that reflects their passion for dance while maintaining their privacy. Remind them to avoid posting anything that could be misconstrued or lead to negative attention.

6. Set Boundaries and Screen Time Limits

It’s easy for young dancers to get caught up in the allure of social media, spending hours scrolling through content or engaging with followers. Set clear boundaries and screen time limits to ensure your dancer is balancing their online activity with other important aspects of their life, such as schoolwork, dance practice, and family time. Tools like parental controls and screen time management apps can be helpful in maintaining these boundaries.

5. Promote Healthy Online Behaviour

Cyberbullying, negative comments, and online drama can have a significant impact on your dancer's mental and emotional well-being. Encourage your child to practice kindness and respect in their online interactions and to refrain from engaging in or responding to negative behaviour. If your child becomes the target of cyberbullying, be there to support them and take appropriate action such as reporting the behaviour to the social media platform or seeking additional help if needed.

Social media can be a powerful tool for young dancers to express their creativity, connect with others, and grow in their art. However, it also comes with risks that require careful management. By educating your child about online safety, monitoring their interactions, and maintaining open communication, you can help ensure they enjoy the benefits of social media while staying safe.

As a parent or guardian, your involvement is key to helping your child build a positive and secure online presence that reflects their passion for dance without compromising their safety.

Article by Chanel Bamford

Photography by Elly Ford

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