Tips for adults and kids
By Denise K. James
Summer has always equaled down time, but these days, it’s not just long bike rides and baseball games. Social media takes up a lot of time for both kids and adults.
Whether you’re reaching out to a friend for whom you have a little more time, indulging your kids in creating an Instagram reel, or using Facebook Marketplace to score some new patio furniture, certain safety tips can mean the difference between using technology to your advantage and, well, pining for the days of analog. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
Curate your feed
It’s no secret that the main purpose of social media has shifted from socializing to collecting market data. That said, summer is a great time to sit down and figure out your “ad preferences” (typically listed under settings), so your feeds aren’t crowded with irrelevant advertising clutter.
Keep your highly personal details private
Privacy is precious, and even more so in 2026. Steer clear of posting on social media when your family is going on a summer vacation, what your new address is, or anything else that hackers and scammers could use against you.
Stick to your own communities
Need a service or product, or just want to meet new friends? Facebook groups built around communities, such as towns and even neighborhoods, are a great place to start and are far less likely to result in a scam. As a bonus, check for mutual friends.
Let old connections drift
When friends and colleagues drift, it’s all too tempting to send a friendly “How are you!” — particularly during the summer months when you might have more time. But doing so can set you up for disappointment if that person is overstretched or simply not interested. Not every lost connection needs to be restored.
