Instagram has launched a new initiative to help parents discuss online safety with their children a video series called ‘Carversations’, which showcases “authentic conversations between parents and teens – right where the best conversations happen: in the car.”
In the first episode, musician Usher goes out with his teenage sons and discusses a series of topics focused on conscious internet use.
The idea is that this will give parents and teens insight into a wider range of perspectives around safe internet use, with the information communicated in a more informal, more trusted way, from other teens and from influential celebrities.
As explained by Instagram:
“Car rides can be a great place for parents and teens to have an open, honest dialogue about tougher topics. With Carversations, we highlight the real, thoughtful exchanges families have about technology, social media and growing up in today’s digital world.”
And while the conversations are supposed to evolve naturally, like during a car ride with your own children, at least parents will focus the discussion specifically on internet safety.
“Each episode features a celebrity parent and their teen (or teens) sharing candid stories and reflections on what it means to grow up in an increasingly online world and the family dynamics that come with it. You’ll hear firsthand how teens use Instagram to explore their creativity, connect with friends (and even their parents), and how parents support their teens online.”
It could be a good way to get more people involved in discussions about important safety elements and issues, as the discussion also involves teenagers speaking their language and jargon. But then again, a lot will depend on who the celebrities are, as I can’t imagine many teenagers will watch a ten-minute video of people they don’t know or care about discussing internet safety.
The right celebrities will make this a more resonant initiative, although striking that balance will be difficult as Meta apparently wants to appeal to parents and teens with these clips.
In short, it’s an interesting idea, but I’m not sure many people will tune in if it’s not someone they care about, or if the conversation isn’t engaging. And because the discussion is very deliberately steered toward harmful behavior, the discussion can sometimes feel a little over-scripted and preachy.
But it’s worth a try, and with Instagram dealing with ongoing teen safety concerns that could see more regions follow Australia’s lead, and limiting social media use among younger users, it’s a new move to provide an alternative to such restrictions.
Instagram’s “Carversations” will be available to view Instagram’s main profile in the appwhile you can also catch them IG’s YouTube channel.
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