Sometimes there are hidden apps on tween’s or teen’s phones. We show you a few simple steps you to find out if your kids are hiding apps from you.
Digital Citizenship Blog at SmartSocial.com
15 Examples of the Positive Impact of Social Media
The negative effects of social media on teens and tweens can be obvious for parents and educators, but there are rarely discussions about the positive impact of social media. Here are 15 ways social media can have a positive impact on students
How to Create an Online Portfolio for College Admissions
Online portfolios create an opportunity for students to showcase their strengths and values to college admissions officers. Learn which platforms students can utilize for building their online portfolio and techniques for sharing their accomplishments and goals online.
Discord App Parent Guide (Video)
Discord is a free voice, video, and text chat app for gamers. Even though the Discord Chat app has built-in safety features, it’s important for parents to be aware that the app can still be dangerous for students. Learn how to keep your family safe on the Discord app.
Digital Detox: How Parents Can Encourage Social Media Breaks
Do you and your kids always pick up your devices when you’re bored? Your family could benefit from a digital detox. Learn how to encourage everyone in your family to find a better balance with online and offline activities.
Dangers Every Parent Should Know Before Giving Their Student A Smartphone
Read the dangers every parent should know before giving their student a smartphone and get SmartSocial.com’s recommendations for some safe device alternatives.
The Negative Effects of Video Games (Parent Guide)
Like most hobbies, playing videos games can be safe in moderation. However, younger students who have not yet developed the ability to self-regulate their behavior need guidance and support to develop those skills. Learn the negative effects of video games and how you can protect your children.
Zynn App: The New TikTok App Copycat That Pays Users
The Zynn app is a new Chinese-owned TikTok copycat app that pays people to watch videos and refer friends. This Zynn app guide explains how the app works and why there are lots of privacy, data, and safety concerns for young users.
Digital Safety and Bending Screen Time Rules During School Shutdowns
To help families prevent screen time addiction, depression, and other digital dangers during this difficult time, the Smart Social team reached out to experts for advice. Read 10 digital safety tips for families here.
Fortnite: Gaming Action… and Addiction?
Fortnite: Battle Royale is a free, multiplayer game that is incredibly popular with students. The concept of the game is simple – the last player to survive the battle wins. But this isn’t a traditional war game.
8 Ways To Be A Present Parent & Avoid Digital Distractions
Digital distractions are now a daily struggle for many moms and dads. Read expert advice on how to be a more present parent in today’s digital world, even while working from home.
WhatsApp: Free Messaging App (Student & Parent Guide)
WhatsApp is easy to use and offers several free ways for people to connect, without using their smartphone’s data or minutes. This guide will help parents and educators understand the app and help students who use it stay safe.
The Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
When parents set a positive example of online behaviors, have open discussions about the unrealistic standards social media can promote, and help students honor their accomplishments with gratitude, they can help their children avoid the negative effects of social media on mental health.
Facebook App Guide For Parents (and Students)
Students tend to stay away from the social media platform Facebook, although it can be a great tool to help students Shine Online™.
TikTok App: Safety Guide For Parents and Educators
The TikTok app is a make-your-own music video platform that is now the top most downloaded app in the world. There are a number of parental controls parents should be aware of – in addition to some safety and privacy concerns with the popular app.
Netflix App: Safety Guide for Parents
The Netflix app allows users to stream or download popular movies and shows from a mobile device. Learn to use the app’s new parental controls here.
Finstagram: What Parents Should Know
Finstagram (Finsta) is a fake (or second) Instagram account. Students get a Finsta to post silly or inappropriate content for a smaller, selective group of friends.
Netflix Party: How Students are Watching Netflix Together
Netflix Party is a free Google Chrome extension that lets friends get together, virtually, to watch Netflix videos and chat about them.
Zoom Video Calls: A Guide for Parents, Students & Educators
The Zoom app is all over the news for kids and adults since people are using it for class time, family time, and social connections. But is it safe to use? Smart Social asked some experts for some safety tips.
Squad App: Video Chat & Screen Share (Parent Review)
Squad is a video chat app that lets users share their screens with others. Friends can have a lot of fun on the app, but strangers can connect on Squad too.