Technology is a big part of many lives. From social media to gaming, caregivers often think about the best ways to keep kids safe online. It’s helpful to think of online safety as a developmental process. Kids have different social and emotional needs as they grow, and parents need different strategies during these ages and stages. The foundation for online safety is creating healthy digital boundaries — what a young person is comfortable doing, seeing, and feeling while using technology and how they would like to be treated by others.
Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers
The most important thing that caregivers can do with babies, toddlers and preschoolers is watch media together with their child. For the youngest children up to age 2, it is recommended to limit media use to video chats with friends and family. Toddlers can benefit from learning based media if caregivers play along and repeat the messages in other off-screen activities. Preschoolers can learn important social, language and reading skills from media and it is best to limit screentime to no more than 1 hour per day.
Kids, Ages 5-8
Clear rules about what is okay and what is not okay can help support safety for early elementary children. This can include conversations about personal versus private information and trusted adults in their lives. Using apps specifically designed for kids, like Messenger Kids or YouTube Kids, can help support safety.
A media plan can help families talk about what being screen free means:
Screen free zones – This could include bedrooms, kitchens, or a dining room table.
Screen free times – This could include bedtimes, meal times, and special events.
Device “bedtime” – Adults and kids can talk about how a device will sleep, including where it will charge/be stored overnight and when a “wake up” will happen.
Kids, Ages 8-12
Tweens are more likely than teens to use screen time to watch videos and play games, with over 53% of tweens reporting that YouTube is their favorite platform. Using device or app-based tools for safety can help older kids learn to navigate the benefits and risks of technology. It’s important to talk with your child about how these safety tools work and use secure passcodes to manage the tools.
Tips for All Kids
There are many things that adults can do to support healthy media habits for kids.
Focus on the quality of screen time rather than the quantity. All screen time is not equal. It is important to think about how the use of media encourages social development and support a feeling of belonging.
Name it to tame it. As adults, it can be hard to manage our fears about media. Take some time to talk about your biggest fears related to social media with a trusted person before you connect with a child.
Approach kids with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask your child to show you how their game works or which video creator is their favorite. This will help kids to feel safe talking about big or scary things that could happen online.
Learn more about Healthy Boundaries for Kids by clicking here.
CommonSenseMedia.org offers articles and guidance for adults who want to keep their families safe and productive online. Common Sense Media provides planners for families with kids of all ages that can be used to make screen time safe and positive.
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