Over the past 20 years, the landscape of the internet has changed drastically. The internet has transformed into an outlet for social expression and communication, which has greatly expanded its user base. And today children are using the internet independently without the proper oversight. Young people are plugged into the internet more than ever with 71% of youth using the internet compared to only 57% of other age groups utilizing the internet (International Telecommunication Union, p. 1). With the higher percentage of youth utilizing the internet, they are at a higher risk of being targeted for cybercrimes, bullying, peer pressure, unrealistic views of other people’s lives, and sleep disruption (Mayo Clinic, p. 1).
So, what steps should parents take to avoid internet risks and in what way can parents integrate online protections to help their children avoid the negative consequences of internet usage?
Below is a list of internet resources that can be used to help teach children internet safety. However, the most important way to stay safe is for the dialogue to be open between parent/child regarding internet usage and to have a level of trust established when letting your child access the internet.
Resource List:
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