Instagram’s New Features: Stories and Anti-Bullying Tools

Instagram has been busy creating new features that they are gradually rolling out to users. They recently implemented a new feature called Instagram Stories and will be releasing an anti-bullying tool in the upcoming months.

Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories allow users to create and share a slideshow of pictures and videos that disappear after 24 hours. They are basically taking on Snapchat with the introduction of their Stories. This feature includes quick simple content, easily created and shared, which then disappears. One difference that may matter to users, is that Instagram does not include the same filters that Snapchat offers.

Instagram’s New Anti-Bullying Tools

The new anti-bullying tools lets users create a personal list of banned words and the choice to turn off comments on posts. The list of banned words prevents posts with those words in the comments from appearing in your feed. Additionally, users cannot use the banned words.

Currently, you can report abuse or spam in Instagram from within the app or you can the report links via Report Something.

Talking Points

The introduction of new features on an often-used app creates a great starting point to talk to your child about the opportunities and dangers that exist on sites like Instagram. Discuss the concept of digital citizenship and help your child understand the rules to use social media. Consider creating a list of words together that your child will ban. The banned words can also become part of your technology contract with your child. Creating such a list with your child helps maintain open communication about technology and can lead to some enlightening discussions.

Instagram is a very popular social media app for kids and these new tools will help create awareness around cyberspace bullying. It also presents an opportunity to implement preventative measures against cyberbullying, both for what your child will see in their feed and what they post for others to view.

the images/videos your child posts and comments on those posts. Bark can also monitor Instagram direct messages and searches on connected Android devices. Instagram does not allow external access to private messages on iOS. We help keep your child safe online and alert you to potential issues like cyberbullying, sexting, drug-use, depression, suicidal thoughts and predators.