1/16/2010

from www.komando.com

Facebook is one of the most popular sites in the world. In fact, the only site used more is Google. You can bet that your children like it. But are they old enough to be using it?

I got a message from a listener asking just that. His son’s friends all have Facebook accounts. So, he’s started asking for one. But he’s only 11.

I don’t think that’s old enough. You certainly can find kids that age and younger on the site. Some have accounts their parents don’t know about. Some parents believe they can monitor and protect their kids on Facebook. Neither is a good idea.

Facebook agrees. Its Terms of Service clearly state, “You will not use Facebook if you are under 13.” Users are also asked for their birthday when creating an account. The site uses this info to calculate age. Anyone under 13 is turned away.

Of course, kids know how to calculate a birthdate, too. So, they lie. This can have unintended consequences.

Anyone under 18 must sign up with a high school network. Once they hit 19 they are booted from that network. Kids who lie about their ages are removed prematurely.

But the main concerns for parents should be privacy, responsibility and cyberbullying.

Young kids aren’t mature enough to be responsible on Facebook. They can post too much personal information. They can upload inappropriate photos. They don’t understand that anything posted online is there forever.

Cyberbullying is a serious problem online. Every school has a few bullies in the hallways. They can follow their victims home through the Web. Facebook is one of the tools they use. This tip will help your family handle cyberbullying.

Now, Facebook does have privacy controls. Some parents think they can protect their children using these. And then they friend their children. This allows for a modicum of control and oversight. But there are too many holes in this strategy.

Parents can’t watch at all times. And kids often resent the monitoring. Many create a second account. It can have a fake name only their friends know. They keep it a secret and do whatever they want.

It’s easier to prohibit Facebook use than juggle all of these concerns. That said, you’ll have to give in at some point. In fact, you’ll want to. Facebook is a great social networking tool.

But steer them away until they’re at least 13. They’ll have some time to mature. And you’ll have time to teach them how to be responsible and safe.

More help for concerned parents: