With more and more kids spending time online, it is crucial for parents and guardians to ensure that children learn about cybersecurity best practices and responsible internet usage. While adults often receive training on these topics, children may not be learning the same lessons at school. The World Economic Forum’s Artificial Intelligence for Children Toolkit offers recommendations to help adults protect children from misinformation and personal data misuse. Google’s Be Internet Awesome website provides information and games to engage children and teach them about online safety.
Common Sense Media is a comprehensive resource that offers age-specific guidance for parents on internet safety, including cyberbullying, social media, and online privacy. ConnectSafely, a nonprofit organization, provides various resources such as blog posts, guides, and podcasts for parents and teens to stay safe online. The Family Online Safety Institute offers tools and resources on social media safety, cyberbullying, and online privacy. NetSmartz, maintained by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, provides free educational resources such as videos and games to teach children about online safety.
The Online Privacy and Security website, created by the Federal Trade Commission, offers tips for parents and children on topics like online privacy, scams, and identity theft. The FBI’s Safe Online Surfing Internet Challenge is a free interactive tool for children in grades three through eight to learn about cybersecurity. Stay Safe Online, maintained by the National Cybersecurity Alliance, provides accessible guidance for parents on fostering safe online habits. The Electronic Frontier Foundation’s Surveillance Self-Defense website offers content on protecting privacy online and communicating securely.
Firefox’s The Tech Talk site shows families common cybersecurity scenarios and responsible internet practices in an engaging style. Parents are encouraged to communicate openly with their children about being skeptical and aware online. Teaching children through stories and role-playing can also be effective in helping them learn about cyber protection and responsible internet usage. Providing real-life lessons through role-play can help children understand the dangers of the online world and how to protect themselves. Ultimately, it is essential for parents and guardians to take an active role in educating children about online safety and guiding them in navigating the digital landscape responsibly.
