Being a parent in the digital age means staying updated with the ever-evolving world of internet slang, including emojis. These little symbols that might seem innocent to us as parents, can often have hidden meanings to our kids. One such emoji is 🚌.
The Hidden Meaning of 🚌
Increasingly, kids are using the term 🚌 in their texts or messages, but it doesn't mean what many might think. You may associate it with a bus ride or a travel plan, but it has a different connotation in the teenage world. The emoji 🚌 is widely being used as a drug slang for Xanax, a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
How is 🚌 Used?
Initiating Conversation About Slang
- Discovering New Words: Ask them, “What’s a new word you and your friends are into right now?”This can help you keep up with the latest slang.
- Sharing Your Own Slang: You can recount your days by saying “When I was your age, people would say something was ‘all that and a bag of chips’ if it was awesome. What’s your favorite word to describe something as cool?”
- Opening up About Emoji Use: It’s high time we confront the elephant in the room, i.e. the vast world of emojis. Strike up a conversation by saying “I know emojis can mean something different to kids than they do to parents. Are there any emojis I use that you think I should stop using?”
- Throw in Some Fun: Lastly, keep the chat light-hearted. For example, asking “If you could describe yourself using just one emoji, which one would you pick?” will answer your query and keep the conversation enjoyable.
By understanding and recognizing the hidden meanings behind these commonly used symbols, parents can help ensure their child’s online safety and can more effectively monitor their child’s online communications.