Why This Matters
Our children are growing up in a world where social media and artificial intelligence (AI) shape how they learn, connect, and see themselves. These tools offer incredible opportunities for creativity, communication, and learning. At the same time, they present risks that parents and schools need to navigate carefully together. Finding the right balance is not about banning platforms or tools but about guiding children to use them wisely.
Navigating Social Media Safely
For many students, social media is their main way of communicating. It helps them stay in touch with friends, share achievements, and explore their interests. Used well, it can support identity and belonging. But the challenges are also real:
- Privacy and oversharing. Students may not realise how much personal information they give away in posts, photos, or videos.
- Unfiltered content. Harmful or age-inappropriate material is only ever a click away.
What we do in school: We teach digital citizenship, resilience, and critical thinking. Students take part in workshops and lessons where they discuss strategies like setting boundaries, talking openly about online pressures, and using parental controls effectively. We also encourage them to pause and think before they post.
Tips for parents:
- Ask your child to show you how they use their favourite platform. This opens the door for conversation rather than conflict.
- Set clear expectations around screen time and device-free times of day, such as meals or before bedtime.
- Keep talking about online experiences in a calm, curious way so your child feels comfortable sharing both the positives and the challenges.
AI and Our Students
Artificial intelligence is increasingly part of everyday life, from voice assistants to tools like ChatGPT. Used positively, AI can support learning, spark creativity, and help students practise new skills. But it also raises important questions for young people.
- Deepfakes and misinformation. Students need to recognise when images, videos, or news might not be real.
- Plagiarism and shortcuts. Relying on AI to “do the work” can undermine learning and confidence.
- Digital footprint. Students must understand how their use of AI tools contributes to their online identity.
What we do in school: We teach students how to use AI responsibly. This means encouraging curiosity and experimentation, while building the critical literacy skills to question sources, verify facts, and recognise manipulation.
Tips for parents:
- Explore AI tools together. Ask your child: “Do you think this answer is accurate?” or “What might be missing?” This builds healthy scepticism.
- Talk about how AI is created and remind children that it does not always give correct or balanced information.
- Reinforce the importance of doing their own work and using AI as a helper, not a substitute for thinking.
Working Together
Safeguarding in the digital age is a partnership. Schools provide guidance, training, and safe environments, but families play a vital role in continuing the conversation at home. When both work together, children develop the confidence to make wise choices online and offline.
At St. Andrews International School Sukhumvit 107, we want students not only to be protected but to be prepared. The skills they learn about social media, AI, and digital citizenship will serve them well beyond school, in higher education and in their future careers.
Key Takeaways for Parents
- Talk openly about social media use and approach conversations with curiosity, not confrontation.
- Set agreed boundaries such as screen time, device-free zones, and age-appropriate platforms.
- Explore AI together and model critical questioning.
- Encourage your child to seek help if something online makes them uncomfortable.
- Keep communication ongoing, not just when problems arise.
Final Thoughts
Technology is not slowing down, and our children will continue to grow up in a fast-changing digital world. By staying informed, keeping communication open, and working in partnership, families and schools can help young people use social media and AI positively and safely. Together, we can give them the tools to thrive, not just survive, in the digital age.
If you would like to learn more about how St. Andrews Sukhumvit 107 supports students in all areas of their education, including digital citizenship, academic success and personal growth, please complete our Enquiry Form and our Admissions Team will be happy to assist.
