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Back-to-School Checklist: Internet Safety






The back-to-school season has officially arrived! Amid the excitement of preparing for a new academic year, one crucial item often gets overlooked on many families' checklists—learning about internet safety. While the internet offers an incredible platform for education, social connection, and daily convenience, it’s essential to understand how to navigate it safely and responsibly.

Teaching kids to use the internet safely is much like teaching them to drive a car for the first time. You explain the importance of wearing a seatbelt, the risks posed by other drivers, and how to be alert and cautious on the road. Similarly, guiding kids through the online world involves explaining the importance of privacy, the dangers that exist, and how to avoid risks. Just as a tattoo may seem trendy at 18 but regrettable in your 30s, your digital footprint can have lasting effects. Once something is posted online, it can remain with you for a long time. It's vital to teach children that the content they share can follow them far into their future, just like that tattoo they might wish they never got.

The internet comes with its dangers, and those should be communicated clearly. Here are three tips to help bring internet safety into your home:

1. Think Before Posting

This tip applies to both kids and parents. We never truly know who is behind an online profile or what someone may do with the information they access. For example, posting a back-to-school picture of your child may seem harmless, but have you considered that your child might still be a minor? A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: Would I be comfortable with someone saving this picture to their phone? Even someone I only talk to occasionally on social media.

Now, imagine if your profile is public. How many strangers could potentially be viewing that photo?

As a parent or guardian, you control your child’s digital profile. If you choose to post photos of them, make sure to review the privacy settings. Ensure that the photo is visible only to your close friends or family, and remove any identifiable personal information such as names, addresses, or location data.

Remember, always think before posting—you never know who might be viewing your child’s photos.

2. Learn About Privacy Settings

Privacy settings are a great starting point for anyone looking to protect themselves online. For example, have you ever googled your name or online handle? Do images or posts of yours show up publicly? If so, it may be due to how your data is shared through social media or other applications.

If your child uses social media or streaming apps like TikTok or YouTube, it's crucial to set up parental controls. These settings help them safely explore these platforms while under your guidance.

Here are some helpful resources:

Take the time to research privacy settings, and if you're ever unsure, don’t hesitate to look up guides online. 3. Be Involved and Transparent

It’s always a good idea to stay engaged with your child's online activity. Regularly review who they’re following, who they’re connected with, and what they’re watching online. Teach them that their actions on the internet can follow them for a long time and may impact opportunities in the future, such as when applying for a job.

Encourage your children to think carefully before liking, reposting, or creating content. What seems fun today might not be something they’d want a future employer to see.

As a parent or guardian, staying informed about the latest trends and continuing to educate yourself on internet safety is key to keeping your family safe online.


Here are some helpful resources:


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