Tweens & Social Media: Online Habits Start Early

Nearly a quarter of children ages 8 to 12 have their own smartphones, according to Common Sense Media. Like their older counterparts, these kids spend a lot of time on social media: Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. We spoke with two middle-schoolers who told us they spend from 4 to 6 hours a day on their smartphones. They admit some of the content they’ve seen is offensive and inappropriate. Schools are increasingly looking at teaching digital citizenship - the appropriate use of technology. It’s a lesson some believe should start as young as elementary school.