Talking with your child about internet safety
11/24/2025 by Maheen Bangash, M.D.
Why should I talk to my child about internet safety?
Much of today's world takes place online. Kids and teens use the internet as part of their daily life, completing schoolwork, gaming, watching videos and talking with friends. These digital spaces can be great for learning and connection, but they come with known risks, including cyberbullying, exposure to harmful or inappropriate content, online predators and misinformation. With the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) online, children may also encounter AI-generated misinformation or content that seems real but is not (also known as "deepfakes").
Parents play a key role in teaching children how to stay safe online. Starting these conversations early and continuing them regularly can help them make safe choices and feel comfortable turning to you for support.
What is a family media plan, and why is it important?
A family media plan sets expectations for how screens are used in the home. This includes screen time limits, device-free zones (like the dinner table) and guidelines for which websites or apps are OK to use. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all families create a family media plan to help children know what's expected and encourage balanced media use across all family members. You can make your own family media plan using this tool from the AAP.
How should I start conversations about internet safety?
- Create an open environment for discussion. Ask your child what they enjoy doing online, who they talk to and what makes them uncomfortable or upset.
- Remain supportive. Let them know they won't get into trouble for being honest, and that your goal is to support them. When children feel safe talking to their parents, they're more likely to approach them early with concerns.
- Be curious, not confrontational. This helps build trust between you and your child.
What should my child know about privacy and safety on the internet?
Children and teens may not fully understand that the internet is public, often permanent, and potentially contains false or misleading content. Teach your child to:
- Avoid sharing personal information such as their name, school, address, and phone number.
- Remember that the internet is public. Posts online can be permanent even if they are deleted.
- Never send or post images they wouldn't want others to see.
- Verify sources and question what they see, especially on social media. Building digital literacy and critical thinking skills is essential for navigating today's online environment.
- Reach out to a trusted adult if they encounter something uncomfortable or if someone online makes them feel unsafe.
How might internet use affect me and my child?
Spending time online can affect sleep, mood, and mental and physical health. Encourage regular breaks, outdoor play, creative hobbies and device-free time with family and friends. Help your child create a list of activities they enjoy or are interested in apart from screen time.
You can be the best role model for your child. Children are more likely to follow healthy routines if they see adults doing the same.
How can my child's clinician help with internet safety?
Your child's clinician can help initiate a discussion on internet safety and provide additional resources tailored to your child's needs. They can also identify if your child may be struggling with issues like cyberbullying, addiction or mood disorders, and are trained to recognize warning signs of online predatory behavior. If you are concerned about screen time, social media or emotional changes linked to internet use, bring this up at your child's next well visit.
Maheen Bangash, M.D., is a resident in Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota. After residency, she plans to complete a fellowship in Child Abuse Pediatrics and contribute to efforts in child internet safety and child abuse/maltreatment prevention.