The internet is a great place to learn, play, and stay connected with family and friends. But it can also have dangers that children and teens may not see or understand. Children’s brains are still growing. They are curious and want to explore, but they are not always able to recognize danger. As parents and caregivers, you are your child’s best protection. Children and teens may face many dangers online:1
- Seeing videos or pictures that are not meant for kids
- Talking to strangers who pretend to be friends
- Feeling pressure to get more likes, followers, or fit in
- Sharing personal information without knowing the risks
- Being pressured to send private photos or videos
- Taking part in dangerous online challenges
Technology will continue to change, but one thing stays the same: children need trusted adults who are involved in their lives. Talking with your child, setting healthy boundaries, and creating a safe space where they can ask for help are some of the best ways to protect them. Your time, attention, and support can help your child grow into a confident and safe digital citizen. The good news is that there are simple ways to help keep your child safe online.1
- Talk often. Make conversations a normal part of everyday life.
- Set clear rules. Decide how much screen time is okay.
- Stay involved. Know which apps your child uses and who they communicate with online.
- Use parental controls. Safety tools are essential and should include your oversight.
- Teach online safety. Explain why privacy matters and how to recognize warning signs.
- Be a good example. Show healthy screen habits by balancing your time with technology.
- Be a safe person. Let your child know they can come to you if something happens online.
If your child has been harmed or threatened online, you do not have to handle it alone. Sexual Assault Treatment Centers, local Child Advocacy Centers, law enforcement, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and RAINN all offer support, guidance and resources for families. Every child deserves to feel safe… both online and offline. Start the conversation today. Listen without judgment, set clear expectations and remind them they can always come to you for help.1
Together, we can create safer online spaces and help protect children from abuse and exploitation. If you’d like to learn more about preventing child abuse, supporting families, or getting involved in our mission, contact our organization or explore our resources. Your involvement can make a lasting difference in a child’s life. If you are interested in becoming an Advocate for the Innocent member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/.
1 – https://www.ecommunity.com/healthminute/2026/keeping-kids-safe-online-what-every-parent-needs-know
2 – Image by pvproductions on Freepik/Magnific