Every day, children and teens use social media to connect with friends, learn new skills, explore hobbies, and discover information. While social media can offer many benefits, understanding how social media shapes what we see online it is important as much of what appears on our screens is not random.
Behind every social media feed is an algorithm working to decide which videos, posts, advertisements, and recommendations users see.
Understanding how these systems work is an important part of digital literacy. By helping children think critically about the content they encounter online, families can support safer, healthier, and more informed digital experiences
What Is Digital Literacy?
Digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use technology. It includes the ability to find, understand, evaluate, create, and communicate information using digital tools.
According to the Canadian Centre for Digital and Media Literacy, digital literacy also involves understanding how online platforms influence what we see and how information is shared online. This includes recognizing advertising, identifying misinformation, protecting privacy, and making informed decisions about online content. (Source: MediaSmarts)
As more aspects of daily life move online, digital literacy has become an essential life skill for people of all ages.
How Social Media Algorithms Work
A social media algorithm is a set of computer rules that decides which posts, videos, advertisements, and recommendations appear in a user’s feed.
Most social media platforms use algorithms to personalize users’ experiences.
Algorithms learn from our online behaviour. These algorithms analyze information such as:
- Videos you watch
- Posts you like or comment on
- Accounts you follow
- Topics you search for
- How long you spend viewing certain content
Based on this information, platforms attempt to predict what content will keep users engaged and are more likely to show similar content in the future. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics)
While personalization can help users discover relevant information and communities, it can also narrow the range of perspectives and information they encounter online.
Why This Matters for Children and Teens
Young people are still developing critical-thinking skills and learning how to evaluate information.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that social media can support learning, creativity, self-expression, and connection, but it can also expose children and teens to misinformation, harmful content, unrealistic comparisons, and excessive screen time. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics)
Because algorithms prioritize engagement, they may repeatedly recommend content that triggers strong emotions or captures attention for long periods of time. Over time, this can create an online environment that feels repetitive or one-sided.
Helping young people recognize that their social media feed is curated by an algorithm can encourage them to think more critically about the information they encounter.
Building Critical Thinking Skills Online
One of the most important digital literacy skills is learning to question and evaluate information.
When children encounter content online, families can encourage them to ask:
- Who created this content?
- Why was it created?
- Is the information supported by evidence?
- Are there other perspectives on this topic?
- How does this content make me feel?
- Is this information trustworthy?
MediaSmarts encourages parents and educators to help young people become active thinkers rather than passive consumers of digital content. Developing these skills can help children recognize misinformation, advertising, and manipulative online content.
Talking About Social Media at Home
Research shows that open conversations between parents and children are one of the most effective ways to support healthy digital habits. (American Academy of Pediatrics)
Rather than focusing only on restrictions, families can create opportunities to talk about online experiences.
Some conversation starters include:
- What is your favourite thing to watch online?
- How do you think the platform chooses what to show you?
- Have you ever seen information that turned out to be false?
- What would you do if something online made you uncomfortable?
Regular conversations help children build awareness and confidence while creating opportunities for guidance when challenges arise.
Practical Ways to Support Healthy Digital Habits
Encourage a Variety of Interests
Exploring different topics, creators, and educational content can help broaden children’s online experiences and expose them to diverse ideas and perspectives.
Balance Online and Offline Activities
Reading, outdoor play, creative projects, sports, volunteering, and family activities all provide valuable opportunities for learning and social connection away from screens.
Teach Privacy Awareness
Children should understand that personal information shared online can remain accessible long after it is posted. Learning about privacy settings and responsible sharing is an important part of digital citizenship. (Source: MediaSmarts)
Model Healthy Technology Use
Children often learn by observing adults. Demonstrating balanced technology habits can help reinforce healthy digital behaviours.
Verify Information Together
When questions arise, explore reliable sources together. Libraries, educational organizations, government websites, and reputable news outlets can help families practice information verification skills.
Digital Literacy Is a Community Skill
Digital literacy is not only about technology. It is about understanding information, asking questions, making informed decisions, and participating confidently in today’s world.
As algorithms increasingly shape the content we see online, helping children develop strong critical-thinking skills becomes more important than ever.
By encouraging curiosity, open conversations, and thoughtful media use, families can help children become informed digital citizens who are prepared to navigate an increasingly connected world.
Digital Literacy Resources for Families
Canada-Wide Resources
MediaSmarts Canada Offers free resources for parents, educators, and youth on digital literacy, online safety, privacy, misinformation, and social media.
Get Cyber Safe Canada
Government of Canada resources on online safety, privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible digital behaviour.
Health and Youth Well-Being
American Academy of Pediatrics: Social Media Resources
AAP Research Corner on Social Media and Youth Mental Health
Local Resources
Literacy Now Burnaby
Supports literacy initiatives and community learning opportunities throughout Burnaby.
Burnaby Public Library
Provides free access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and technology learning opportunities.Decoda Literacy Solutions
Supports literacy and lifelong learning across British Columbia through training, resources, and community partnerships.
Decoda Literacy Solutions
Supports literacy and lifelong learning across British Columbia through training, resources, and community partnerships.