Writer's Guide 101 (Wattpad Edition)

XXI. Helicopter Parents

Yes, that's right!

There are also parents on Wattpad. Helicopter parents are basically folks who constantly monitor the kids' online activities and make sure they aren't talking to strangers. They could also be babysitters or other relatives watching over the kids.

While I understand it is their responsibility to save little Timmy from any hidden dangers on the Internet and sharing personal info, I just don't think it's a perfect idea to be snooping on his accounts and assuming he might be up to no good.
Also, since when was it a good idea to hold your kids' passwords in the first place? It's like these parents don't trust their kids at all.

When they (the children) are like around ten, they should already be entitled to their own privacy and allowed to make their own decisions. Teach them how to be smart and responsible netizens. Try building that trust in your relationship.

A lot of kids are actually smart and very much familiar with how the Internet works.
While it's easy to say they are often taken advantage of (because that's what the media always say), it doesn't mean that your kid will also be the same. It's alright for them to have Internet friends as long as you're being vigilant.

Another peeve I have is controlling their online presence. Some parents are like "I don't want you venting out your personal troubles here to avoid embarrassing the family" or "I disapprove your online persona here so I want you to do this/that ... "
    This isn't me being creepy, but I can sometimes tell if the person behind the screen is older or younger based on their posts.

There are cases where kids have nobody else to confide with, especially when they live in a dysfunctional home and are often treated badly by others.
Being online is their only escapade. I wish families would talk things out between them or seek counseling.
I don't like suggesting people to move out or get a job so they can do whatever they want because we all know it's not that easy for everyone.

(Me getting yelled at by parents because I ain't a parent myself)

If there are instances where the kids encounter suspicious activities online and need help, avoid putting the blame, lecturing or criticizing them.
There is no point saying "That's what you get for wasting your time online" or "Because you post stuff that you're not supposed to" as it will only prevent them from telling you their problems. Always know the full story and help them solve the problem at hand.

But what about parents who try suing strangers online over some harmless post and think they're setting a bad example to the youth?

Just like any other place on the Internet, Wattpad is a place for ages 13 and up. The parents can just create an exclusive online space on Facebook/TikTok/YouTube/personal website if they can't allow their kids being on Wattpad for safety reasons.

NOTE:

This is not a diss on parents in general. It's just my personal take on how helicopter parenting can negatively affect kids. I may not be a parent myself, but it doesn't mean I can't teach people what's right.
   If someone talks about how they don't fully agree with their parents' behavior, do not accuse them of being disrespectful and "anti-parents."