CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Back-to-school season is in full swing, and as kids continue to use digital devices in and out of the classroom, one Charlotte nonprofit is seeking solutions to help students and the adults in their lives set healthy digital boundaries.
SociaLight Stars was started by a Charlotte woman who wanted to shed light on how to be a good steward of social media.
Raenae Thompson said she was a victim of a family member using social media to attack her.
"Because of digital devices, very easily, you can pick up your phone and type or go live because of a feeling you have about someone," Thompson said. "Unfortunately it led to social media trauma and cyberbullying."
It's because of this that she wanted to help those who have gone through the same thing and help prevent it from happening to others -- especially teens.
According to a Pew Research Center study in 2022, up to 95% of youth ages 13 to 17 reported using social media, with more than a third saying they use social media almost constantly.
The latest study in 2023 shows teens continuing to use social media at high rates -- the use of YouTube and TikTok topped the list of platforms.
Thompson said teens should understand how taking strong feelings about someone or about a certain topic to social media platforms can be harmful.
"What happens when you go on social media and you add fuel to the fire?" Thompson questioned. "Or you add that comment to something that's already going on? You don't help the situation, you hurt the situation."
Through SociaLight Stars, Thompson has been able to help students and families become good digital citizens.
"A lot of times in our parent workshops, a few that we've actually had through CMS after-school programs, we've talked about digital boundaries and digital wellness that we would love for children and adults to implement in their lives," she said.
Thompson said she hopes to speak with other area school districts.
In the meantime, families can set an example and start the conversation at home.
"Make sure that children know to think before they post," she said. "Is it true? Is it helpful? Will it encourage someone to be a great person? Will it encourage someone in their positive mental health?"
Thompson said families can get started by setting social media timers, encouraging kids to engage in more in-person communication and talking to them about how to report cyberbullying and online abuse.
Contact Destiny Richards at drichards5@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.