Helping Children and Teens Navigate the Internet Safely

The internet is a powerful tool for learning, creativity, and connection. For children and teens, it supports schoolwork, exploration of interests, and communication with friends and family. As access to technology continues to grow, it is important to help young people understand how to use online spaces safely, responsibly, and respectfully.

Internet safety is not about limiting curiosity—it is about providing guidance, building awareness, and encouraging open conversations so children feel supported as they navigate the digital world.

Why Internet Safety Is Important

Children often feel confident using technology, but they may not always recognize potential risks online. Age-appropriate guidance helps young people develop skills that support safe decision-making, healthy boundaries in digital spaces, and confidence in asking for help when something feels uncomfortable.

Key Internet Safety Topics for Families to Know

Protecting Personal Information
Children should understand that certain information should not be shared online, including full name, home address, phone number, or school name; passwords or private account details; and photos or videos that reveal location or daily routines. Encouraging children to check with a trusted adult before sharing information online helps reinforce safe habits.

Online Communication
Not everyone online is known or familiar in real life. Children should be encouraged to communicate only with people they know and trust, be cautious if someone asks personal questions or requests secrecy, and tell a trusted adult if an interaction feels confusing or uncomfortable.

Age-Appropriate Content
While much online content is educational and positive, children may occasionally come across material that is not intended for them. Talking in advance about what to do—such as closing the page and asking an adult for help—can help children feel prepared.

Respectful Online Behavior
How children interact online matters. Conversations about digital citizenship can include treating others with kindness and respect, understanding that words online can have real-world impact, and knowing how to block, mute, or report inappropriate behavior.

Screen Time and Balance
Technology works best when it is part of a balanced routine. Families may consider setting clear expectations around screen time, encouraging offline activities like reading, sports, and creative play, and modeling healthy technology habits at home.

Phones and tablets are a big part of school, friendships, and fun—but without boundaries, screen time can quietly crowd out sleep, homework, physical activity, and face-to-face connection. The good news: you don’t have to “fight the phone.” Both Apple (iOS) and Google (Android) include built-in parental controls that let you set screen time limits, schedule downtime, approve app downloads, and see how your child is spending time on their device.

Click here to read a parent-friendly guide to using Parental Controls on iOS and Android to set and monitor screen time; a step-by-step instructions for iPhones/iPads and Android devices, plus a few tips to make the rules stick.

How Parents, Caretakers and Adults Can Support Safe Internet Use

Parent, caretakers and adults can support children by keeping communication open, staying involved and informed about the platforms children use, setting shared expectations, and checking in regularly as children grow and technology evolves.

Supporting Safe, Confident Digital Learning

Helping children navigate the internet safely is a shared responsibility. With education, guidance, and ongoing conversations, young people can enjoy the benefits of technology while learning how to protect themselves and others online.