To help make WhatsApp safer for children, parents can take several proactive steps: 1. Set Age-Appropriate Use WhatsApp’s minimum age requirement is 16 in most countries, but it may be lower in some regions (13 in the U.S.). Ensure your child meets the age guidelines. 2. Use Privacy Settings Limit who can see personal information: […]
⊕ There’s been an 18,000% increase in this crime targeting minors in the U.S. in the past 2 years, resulting in at least 39 teen suicides and 38,000 victims. ⊕ Just in the first half of 2024, the IWF, a partner in the UK Safer Internet Centre, reported a 19% increase in child sexual […]
In today’s digital age, our children are growing up in a world where algorithms shape much of their online experiences—from the videos they watch to the games they play and the content they see on social media. As parents, it can feel overwhelming to understand these complex systems, let alone explain them to our kids. […]
The Dangers of In-Game Chat for Parents In-game chat features have become a staple in many video games, allowing players to communicate with each other in real time. While this can enhance the gaming experience by fostering teamwork and building communities, it also poses several dangers, particularly for younger players. Parents need to be aware […]
The Dangers of Chatbots for Parents Chatbots are becoming an increasingly prevalent part of our digital world, used in everything from customer service to educational tools. While they offer convenience and can be useful for a variety of purposes, they also pose certain dangers, especially for children. As parents, it’s crucial to understand these risks […]
Image by freepik In today’s increasingly digital world, our children are exposed to the online jungle where dangers like phishing lurk behind seemingly harmless messages, emails, and pop-ups. Phishing, a common tactic used by cybercriminals to steal personal information, can affect anyone—from curious toddlers clicking on colourful images to tech-savvy teens managing their social media […]
Here are scripts tailored for parents to help children of different age groups understand and practice delayed gratification: For Preschoolers (Ages 3-5): Scenario: You’re at the supermarket checkout, and your child wants some sweets right now. Parent: “Wow, those sweets looks yummy, don’t they? I know you want them now, but guess what? If we […]
When discussing social media advertising with children, it’s important to tailor the conversation to their age and understanding. Below are scripts for parents to use with young children, preteens, and teenagers. For Young Children (Ages 5-8) Context: At this age, children are just starting to use technology and social media under supervision. They may not […]
Talking to Your Kids About Advertising on Social Media: A Parent’s Guide In today’s digital age, children are growing up surrounded by screens and social media platforms. As parents, it’s important to guide them through the complexities of online spaces, including understanding advertising on social media. Ads are everywhere, often disguised as regular content, and […]
Dealing with digital distractions is a challenge for both parents and children in today’s tech-saturated world. Here are some simple tips and scripts to help manage and reduce these distractions effectively: 1. Set Clear Boundaries and Rules Tip: Establish specific times when devices can be used, such as after homework or during weekends. […]
Navigating the Digital Jungle: A Guide for Parents on Cookies and Privacy Violations In today’s digital world, children are growing up surrounded by technology. While the internet offers endless opportunities for learning and entertainment, it also comes with risks—particularly when it comes to online privacy. One of the most common and least understood aspects of […]
I work with lots of parents who struggle to start conversations around their kids devices and putting in safety measures around their use. Some parents find them complicated. Some parents dread their kids reactions. Some parents don’t know about them. Most parents don’t know what to say. But one thing is clear from talking and […]
Navigating the Digital Jungle: Parents’ SCRIPTS for Safe Sleepovers in the Age of Smartphones and Gaming Designed by Freepik Script for Talking to Your Kids Going on a Sleepover Parent: “Hey [Child’s Name], I’m excited for you to have fun at the sleepover tonight! Before you go, I just want to chat with you about […]
Here are Scripts for parents to help you manage and discuss smartphone and tablet use with your children at different ages: toddlers (2-5 years), primary school kids (6-10 years), preteens (11-13 years), and teenagers (14-17 years). Script for Toddlers (Ages 2-5) Context: Setting rules and guiding very young children about screen time. Parent: “Hey poppet, […]
Violence, Technology, and Social Media: The ‘Perfect Storm’ So what can parents do? The key is to engage in ongoing, meaningful conversations with your children about media literacy, critical thinking, and the impact of online behaviour. Discussing the consequences of violence, extremism, and hate speech—both online and in the real world—will help them understand how […]
