DC Internet Safety - Ellen Carey

I explored and used twitter, facebook, and instagram.  I don't post much on these sites, but more or less use them to keep an eye on my children.  I also coach at the high school level and use these sites to monitor what the student athletes I work with are also doing.  I have had a few instances where I've been blocked by a few of my friends children.  One in particular has parents who do not have any social media.  He had been posting pictures about what he was doing on the weekends.  I shared that information with his parents who were surprised, but not surprised.  Needless to say, he blocked me.  His parents still do not have any way of looking at his social media because they don't know how to use it and don't seem to have much interest.  This young man is a junior in high school and a very good bowler.  If he wanted to, he could bowl in college.  I have talked to college coaches who say if an athlete shows interest in their program, they will search social media for that person.  Ultimately, what gets posted could cost young athletes scholarships to college.  It can also cost them a lot more.  I would like to keep as many kids as safe as I can.