WELL-BEING — Navigating Social Media for Young Performers

NAVIGATING SOCIAL MEDIA FOR YOUNG PERFORMERS

Social media offers young performers opportunities to showcase their talents and connect with others. However, it's essential to use these platforms responsibly to protect mental health and adhere to legal standards.

Set Healthy Boundaries

Limit screen time and take regular breaks to avoid burnout and comparison traps.

Curate Your Feed

Follow accounts that uplift and inspire you, steering clear of those that cause stress or self-doubt.

Engage Positively

Use social media to celebrate your progress and support others, rather than seeking validation through likes and comments.

Protect Your Privacy

Ensure that all social media accounts are managed by a parent or guardian. Be mindful of what you share and who you connect with, and always check with a trusted adult before posting or interacting online.

Remember Real Life Comes First

Prioritise in-person experiences, training, and self-care over online presence.

THINK BEFORE YOU POST

Remember that once something is shared online, it can be nearly impossible to remove completely. Even deleted posts can be screenshotted, shared, or archived. As a young performer, your online presence is part of your personal brand, and anything you post can impact future opportunities. Always consider how your words, images, and videos might be perceived by industry professionals, schools, or potential collaborators before sharing them.

Understand Legal Protections

Australia has enacted laws to protect children's online privacy and safety:

Social Media Age Restrictions: As of December 2024, children under 16 are prohibited from accessing major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. This legislation aims to safeguard young users from potential harms associated with social media use.

Children's Online Privacy Code: The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is developing a code to enhance privacy protections for children online. This code will set standards for how children's data is collected and used by online services.

By using social media thoughtfully and understanding these legal protections, young performers can enjoy its benefits while staying happy, confident, and focused on their craft! 🎭✨