How Do I Parent in a Social Media World?
In this social media focused episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe, joined by All Pro Dad’s Bobby Lewis and Jason Hood, dive into the complexities of parenting in the social media era. They discuss when it’s appropriate for children to have smartphones, how much time teens spend on platforms like TikTok, and the rising trend of young children using social media. 

Navigating Social Media With Your Children
By delaying smartphone use and fostering real-life activities, parents can help their children develop healthier digital habits.

Balancing the Pros and Cons
While social media offers benefits, such as connecting with friends and learning opportunities, it also poses risks like cyberbullying, misinformation, and addiction.

Parental Strategies and Tips
Practical tips include monitoring social media use, setting boundaries, and rewarding, phone-free family meals. These strategies encourage meaningful in-person connections and healthier tech habits.

Empathy and Supervision
Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children through the digital landscape. By setting a positive example and fostering open dialogue, families can thrive in the age of social media.

Actionable Items:
1. Participate together.

2. Friend them and interact.

3. Monitor all accounts and know their passwords.

2. 4. Set and stick to ground rules about the time spent on the apps.
3.  
4. 5. Replacing is more effective than removing. 
5.  
6. 6. Remember, the phone isn’t the enemy.
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8. 7. Stay calm, because you’re kid’s not going down without a fight.
   
   8. Your kids aren’t you; have some empathy.
   
   9. They are watching you, so be the example.

Important Episode Timestamps:
(00:00) Welcome to the All Pro Dad Podcast
(00:23) Introducing Today’s Big Topic
(00:53) Quiz: Social Media and Kids
(02:39) First Social Media Experiences
(03:33) Kids and Social Media Usage
(05:46) The Pros and Cons of Social Media
(09:54) The Impact of Social Media on Kids
(11:00) Balancing the Positives and Negatives
(12:39) Parental Concerns and Strategies
(15:16) Practical Tips for Parents
(20:42) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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APD Pro Move:

Ask your kids what they think are the pros and the cons of social media. Maybe they’ll surprise you.

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Sponsor: All Pro Dad Podcast is brought to you by Family First. Family First is an organization on a mission to provide parenting, marriage, and relational truth that helps people love their family well and gives them greater hope for the future. Visit FamilyFirst.Net to learn more.

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