2/26/25 The Internet is an integral part of daily life, offering opportunities for learning, communication, and entertainment. However, while it provides great benefits, it also exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, online predators, and privacy violations. Ensuring that children use the internet safely is a priority for parents, educators, and policymakers. Teaching children about the dangers of the internet and setting clear expectations is one of the most important preventive measures. Research by the Internet Safety Technical Task Force (2008) highlights that children who receive ongoing education on safe Internet practices are less likely to engage in risky online behavior. Parents and guardians should talk to children about the dangers of oversharing, meeting strangers online, and cyberbullying. Effective conversations can include: What constitutes appropriate online behavior. Recognizing red flags (e.g., strangers asking personal questions). How to report suspicious activity to trusted adults. While social media platforms can connect children with friends and ideas, they can also expose them to harmful content. Research by the Pew Research Center (2021) shows that 95% of teens have access to a smartphone, and 85% use social media, which can lead to privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content. Setting age-appropriate guidelines for social media use, such as keeping accounts private and only accepting friend requests from known individuals, is essential. Some tips for safe social media use: Set strict privacy settings on social media accounts. Limit the amount of personal information shared online. Regularly review followers and friends on social platforms. The research underscores that internet safety is not solely the responsibility of children, parents, or schools but requires a collaborative approach involving all parties. Combining education, technology, and communication can reduce risks and empower children to use the internet safely. Resources for Internet safety monitoring: Family Time Norton Family MMGuardian BARK