Questions to prompt discussion with students:

Parents and Teachers: View the full Facilitation Guide Here

Elementary School Students (dialogue starters):

• Who would you hire?
  • Imagine you’re an employer looking to hire someone new. If you looked through everything they’ve posted online, what kinds of posts would make you want them as an employee?
• Showing your best self
  • When you’re older and start using social media, what are some things you’re involved with or things about yourself you would want to show in your posts? 
• Your online reputation
  • What kinds of people might see your social media posts later in life and use it for clues about the kind of person you are? 

Middle School Students (dialogue starters):

• Creating the right image
  • What are some things to consider when you post on social media, not knowing who might see those posts in the future? 
• What you want people to know
  • What are some of your best qualities or accomplishments you’re proud of that you could show in social media posts? 
• Dreams for the future
  • How can the things you post help you achieve your future goals? 

High School Students (dialogue starters):

• Building an Online Portfoliosome text
  • What are some different platforms and ideas to use in creating an online portfolio? 
• A case for using social media
  • Even if you don’t really like to be on social media, what are some incentives to use it as a way to promote your best qualities? 
• Your online footprint
  • If you ran a search for yourself today, what do you think would pop up?

Additional Resources

• Positive Effects of Social Media for Students
• Parental Control on Student Devices: What Parents & Educators Need to Know
• Making Screen Time Fun While Reducing the Negative Impact

Conclusion

Students have been told time and time again that social media can have a negative impact on their lives, but they rarely hear about the ways that it can benefit them or positively impact their mental health. From creating a more dynamic college resume to building communication and online editing skills, social media can create plenty of positive opportunities for students.

While it’s important for parents to talk about the dangers and risks of being online, it’s also important for kids to understand the positives of social media. When kids understand the negatives and positives of social media – and regularly talk to their parents about them – they will be better equipped to use social media wisely.