Humanity is living in an age when technology has given us the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere on the planet.

With any tool there are dangers included says Val Caldwell, an independent consultant. She was asked by Garden Valley Collegiate and Northlands Parkway Collegiate to give a presentation encouraging parents to become more proactive in understanding this new social media world.

"It’s not a presentation to bash social media, or tell them not to use it," explains Caldwell. "It’s trying to help parents recognize this is the world kids live in, so what can we do to help them and protect them."

Some concerns that have arisen around social media is ‘Snap Map’ on Snap Chat which shows your GPS location. It identifies the exact location of the user, and also provides the ability for young people to check on their friend's location and who they are with all the time.

Regarding Instagram, there’s a need for affirmation says Caldwell, explaining we are looking for those likes and approval which can have a negative correlation with our self-esteem.

There’s also the reality, whatever we post on the Internet, is now available to be seen by everyone, and we must be aware what we say could come back to bite us, notes Caldwell.

"This isn't about not using it, but recognizing my generation in my 40’s who are parents to these kids, we did not grow up with this technology. How do we bridge that gap where our kids are at, and where we're at? How do parents protect their kids in a playground they don't know how to play in."

Caldwell encourages parents to talk to their kids, and create a better dialogue in understanding the world their child lives in.

She also encourages parents and kids to be proactive in their privacy settings, to change their settings on social media, only allowing those they have approved in their contacts to see what they're sharing.

If parents are looking to learn more about social media Caldwell says it’s as easy as searching on Google.

Social media allows people to connect with loved ones or friends that they wouldn't necessarily have the ability to.