I have been on Facebook for a few years now, so I am pretty familiar with its ins and outs. I have learned the hard way that it’s important to keep your profile COMPLETELY private except to friends, and that not everything on FB is meant for kids. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting in touch with old friends from high school and college and it has helped me remain close with friends and family that live out-of-state. I LOVE posting pictures of my son and family and tagging photos that have friends and family in them is super fun as well! 
I enjoy making my page my own and “liking” or becoming a fan of my favorite shows, books, movies, etc. Most importantly, I have been able to help friends via Facebook inbox messages with fertility issues (which I have been through).
I think that being familiar with these social sites is important because my students are on Facebook and talk about it often. I think it’s important to be “in touch” with kids so they trust you and will ultimately work harder for you in class. Being friends with current students is a sticky issue, and I have made it a rule to not “friend” anyone that is currently in my class. I am, however, friends with many former students and it’s always fun to keep in touch that way.
