Twitter is an online social networking and microblogging service that enables users to send and read "tweets," which are text messages limited to 140 characters.
- Registered users can read and post tweets, but unregistered users can only read them.
- Users can keep their tweets private and approve individual followers. This is a potentially good way for teens to “get their feet wet” in social media.
- Twitter is increasingly being used as a promotional tool for products and celebrities so limit your teen’s exposure to ads by keeping their Twitter circle among real friends.
- Users can choose to post their location along with each Tweet—not a great idea for teens.
- If your teen is ready for social media, Twitter can be used as an education tool as well as a social networking tool.
Below, you will find a live feed showing two Twitter streams that can help you, as a parent or guardian, learn more about Internet trends and safe Internet usage for you and your teen.
Common Sense Educators on Twitter |
Family Online Safety Institute on Twitter |