Preteen/Teen

Preteens and teens often have more say in how they use their devices and what they view. Support them in learning how to do their own research and discuss how they can stay safe online.

Encourage your child to pay attention to and follow age ratings, reviews, and content warnings for all apps, games, movies, and TV shows.

 

Does an app or website allow purchases? Talk to your child about a plan for how to handle online or in-app shopping. Consider requiring a password or pin before your child can make a purchase.

Teach your child to cover their device's webcams when not in use. This can help block unwanted access to the camera, protecting your child's privacy.

 

Explain that they should avoid clicking on links or opening attachments that seem strange or are from unknown sources. These could contain viruses that could take their information or lead to problems with their devices.

Before allowing your child play a video game, discuss any content warnings and what the game is about. Look at the ESRB rating age recommendations, such as "E for Everyone" or "T for Teen." 

 

Research has shown that children who regularly watch violent games, shows, or movies may become numb to violence. They may also copy aggressive behavior that they see online.

Encourage your child to think carefully about what they post online. Photos, videos, comments, and posts stay on the internet forever, even if they seem to disappear after a few seconds. Make sure your child understands the importance of keeping personal information private, especially their age, location, and financial details.

Regularly check what your child is viewing online. If they have social media, look at their friend list and the accounts they follow.

 

Consider using parent controls to limit screen time and choose which apps or websites your child can access.

Remind your child that not everything they see on the internet is true. Some pictures, videos, or information might have been created by AI or could be made up. Help them learn to find other trustworthy sources and to ask a trusted adult if they are unsure about anything they see online.

Watch for signs of internet and social media misuse or overuse. This could include stepping back from hobbies or friendships. They may lose interest in activities that do not involve electronic devices.

 

Encourage your child to balance screen time with other healthy and fun activities, such as playing sports, reading, doing a craft, or spending time with friends. These activities encourage your child to be active, creative, and social. 

Talk about cyberbullying and how it can hurt others. Examples include sending mean messages, posting embarrassing photos of someone, or making up stories about other people. Cyberbullying can happen anywhere and at any time of day.

 

If your child is a victim of cyberbullying, they might become depressed, anxious, have trouble sleeping, or struggle with schoolwork. Talk to your child about their experiences, report harmful posts or messages, and offer mental health resources.

Have a discussion about sexting and inappropriate messages or posts on social media. Ask if they know what sexting is, and give them age-appropriate information. Be clear when explaining and ask if they have seen any images or videos showing nudity or sexual content. Encourage your child to report sexual posts, videos, or messages and to talk to a trusted adult about anything that makes them uncomfortable.

Set a good example by showing habits that you want the child to follow. For example, this could mean having meals without phones or keeping devices in another room when it is time for bed. By doing these things, you can help your child learn and build good digital habits.

Do you have questions about online or social media safety for preteens or teens?

Call our FREE Safety Store Helpline at 317-274-6565. You can talk live with our staff Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM about your safety questions.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

healthychildren.org: Screen Time and Healthy Media Use Habits

healthychildren.org: Kids & Tech - 12 Tips for Parents in the Digital Age

healthychildren.org: How to Help Prevent Cyberbullying 

healthychildren.org: How to Talk to Children About Sexting

healthychildren.org: Kids & Screen Time-Questions for Young Teens

healthychildren.org: Kids & Screen Time-Questions for Older Teens

raisingchildren.net.au: Online Safety: Teenagers

commonsensemedia.com: Parenting, Media, and Everything In Between

988indiana.org: Indiana Suicide & Crisis Hotline

google.com: Google Family Link

microsoft.com: Microsoft Family Safety

apple.com: Family Features