Our girls aren't on Facebook.
Our daughters, ages 15 and 12, do spend time on the computer; they play games and listen to music but, they don't use Facebook. Have they asked to have an account? Sure. But I always answer with, 'If you want to talk to your friends, or share something, use the phone.' Then I get the eye roll and the "all of my friends have a Facebook account!" Thing is, I don't care. This comeback doesn't matter to me in the least.
I say No to Facebook for my girls because:
A). There's already enough confusion and drama in life - why add to that with possible misunderstandings with a poor choice of words, or statements that were said in the heat of the moment that you can't take back.
B.) I feel social media in Facebook form increases the chances of getting sucked into someone else's bad mood, hurt feelings or revenge tactics. It's one thing to support a friend who's going through a tough time but in written form through social media I feel things get out of control too fast and go too far.
Two years ago we had an eye-opening experience. Our oldest visited a chat room for Anime fans and would talk in this chat room with her very close friend from school. Well, these friends got into a fight in this chat room and even though our computer is in our Family Room (which means no privacy) intense, scary, powerful things were said/written and it took parents on both sides by surprise. It was shocking. It was bad. Lo-o-o-o-ong discussions came from this experience and it was proof that social media wasn't a good fit. And even though this happened two years ago, I'm sticking to my 'No'.
Yes, I have a FB account. It's mainly to share information about my blogs and connect with other bloggers. It could appear hypocritical, but my intention with my FB use is to promote and support. At their young age they're figuring out how they feel and it shouldn't be broadcast on Facebook. I know I could "Friend" them but again, once it's been expressed the unnecessary drama begins.
Kids - Go write in a journal.
Once my girls turn 18 I can't legally tell them they can't take part. I just hope that by then what they share won't hurt others or themselves.
To read more Tuesday Truth:
"Confessions Of A Teen Mom" ~ Guest Blogger
"When I Open My Mouth My Mom Comes Out" ~ Guest Blogger