Keep kids safe online by having regular conversations.
Reports indicate that one in seven children will experience sexual abuse by the age of 18. While prevention education has made strides, online abuse is a rapidly growing concern.
Emily Bell McCormick, founder of the Policy Project, shared how to protect children from online abuse.
Early and Frequent Conversations
Having regular, small conversations with children about online safety is more effective than one big talk. Emily advised, “Start asking them who do they like to follow, what do they like to look at? But then also ask and make it very normal to say, ‘have you ever gotten a weird message?'”
Establishing Tech-Free Zones
Creating tech-free zones or times in the home can help prevent abuse. “Abuse happens when kids are alone on their devices,” Emily explained. Keeping phones out of bedrooms at night and setting aside tech-free times like during dinner can reduce risks.
The Three Question Rule
Teaching children to ask themselves three questions before posting or sending anything online can help them make better decisions:
- Would I send it to my grandma?
- Would I send it to my teacher?
- Would I want this to be there in 20 years?
Emily noted, “Another reframing of that is just to say, would I want to see this picture of my mom or dad?”
Understanding Exploitation and Grooming
Educating children about exploitation, sextortion, and grooming is vital. Emily emphasized, “Helping kids understand why we don’t post things like this is crucial. Somebody might take advantage of us.”
For more information, visit thepolicyproject.org.
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