Course Description
Social media is an integral part of life for children and young people, providing opportunities for communication, self-expression, and entertainment. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube allow young users to connect with peers, explore interests, and access information. However, social media also presents challenges, including cyberbullying, privacy risks, online peer pressure, and the potential impact on mental health.
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of social media for children and young people, exploring the most popular platforms, why they appeal to younger users, and the different ways social media is used. It examines both the positive and negative aspects, including the role of social media in identity development, digital peer influence, and online safety concerns.
You will learn about the benefits of social media, such as maintaining relationships, fostering creativity, and staying informed, while also understanding the risks, including exposure to inappropriate content, excessive screen time, and online interactions with strangers. The course also offers practical strategies for managing social media use, encouraging digital literacy, and ensuring a safer online experience.
By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and skills to support children and young people in navigating social media responsibly and safely.
Modules Covered
- What is social media
- Who uses social media
- The most popular social media platforms used by children and young people
- How children and young people use social media
Accreditation
The Understanding Social Media for Children and Young People course is approved by the CPD certification service.
Benefits
- Understand social media use – Learn how children and young people engage with different platforms and online communities.
- Recognise risks and challenges – Identify issues such as cyberbullying, online safety risks, and the impact of peer pressure.
- Support positive digital habits – Encourage responsible social media use and help young users build a healthy online presence.
- Improve online safety awareness – Learn about privacy settings, parental controls, and security features.
- Explore real-world trends – Gain insights into popular social media platforms, influencers, and emerging digital trends.
- Develop strategies for balance – Understand how to manage screen time and promote well-being in the digital age.
Eligibility
This course is ideal for:
- Parents and carers who want to support their child’s safe social media use.
- Teachers and educators promoting digital literacy and online safety.
- Youth workers and safeguarding professionals working with children and young people.
- Anyone looking to better understand the role of social media in young people’s lives.
