Viral internet Challenges

What are they?

A Viral Internet Challenge (VIC) is the cyber equivalent of a dare.  These can range from the harmless and silly (mannequin challenge, bottle flipping challenge), helpful (ALS ice bucket challenge – to raise awareness) to the harmful and dangerous (the Momo Challenge).

How do children find out about these challenges?

Children’s favourite Youtubers will often take part in these activities as a way of attracting viewers.  Like children all through time, our children want to imitate the people they look up to and may be encouraged to take part in these activities themselves, sharing with friends or online.  

What should I do if my children are taking on a VIC?

Talk about it. Though we can’t always be with our children to prevent dangerous behavior, our words really can stay with them. Say, “If you ever want to do an internet challenge, check with me first.”

Get them to think. Help your child think through the challenges and whether they’re safe or have potential risks. Say, “Walk through each step and figure out where things could go wrong.”

Acknowledge peer pressure. Today’s children think of internet personalities as their peers, so seeing children on YouTube doing a challenge could influence your child. Say, “Why do you want to do this? Is this a video of yourself that you really want out in the world?”

Stay (somewhat) up to date. Ask your child about what’s happening in their lives when they’re not distracted — even when it seems like they don’t want you to. Sometimes children are more willing to talk about what’s going on with other children than with themselves, so pose questions about friends, school, and trends. Once the conversation is open, you can get a sense of what your child thinks about the latest craze — and if they’re safe. Keep an open mind and intervene if you’re concerned. Say, “Would you consider doing a viral stunt if someone asked you? Which ones would you do and not do?”

Model responsible online habits. Some parents are the ones recording their children taking these challenges, so make sure your involvement sends the message you intend. Today it might be harmless, but tomorrow it might be more dangerous. Help your child make the distinction so they can stay safe. Say, “Let’s do a funny challenge together, but we’ll only film it if you want to, and we’ll only share it with family.”

Made with content from https://www.commonsensemedia.org/blog/viral-youtube-challenges-internet-stunts-popular-with-kids