Have ongoing conversations about online safety

Talk to your children regularly about what they do online, who they interact with, and what makes them uncomfortable. Frame it as an ongoing dialogue, not a lecture. Ask open-ended questions: "What is your favorite thing to do online?" and "Has anyone ever said something online that made you feel weird?"

Why It Works

Technology changes faster than any filter can keep up with. Children who feel comfortable talking to their parents about online experiences are far more likely to report problems early. Trust-based communication is more effective than surveillance.

Tips

• Start conversations early, before children encounter problems
• Avoid overreacting when they share something concerning — that shuts down future communication
• Teach the rule: "Never share your real name, school, address, or phone number with strangers online"
• Discuss that people online may not be who they claim to be