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Understanding Today’s Digital World
Understanding Today’s Digital World
Popular platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Discord, gaming platforms)
Common online risks:
Cyberbullying
Exposure to inappropriate content
Online predators
Privacy and data concerns
Digital addiction
The positives: using technology for learning, creativity, and connection.
Starting Conversations
Starting Conversations:
Keep dialogue open and ongoing—be curious, not judgmental.
Ask your child to show you their favorite apps and how they use them.
Be curious, not critical
If your child knows they can talk to you without fear of getting in trouble, they’re more likely to share concerns. Listen first, guide second.
Talk early and often
Start conversations about social media and internet use as soon as your child begins using devices. Keep the dialogue going — ask them about their favorite apps, what they’re watching, and how they feel about what they see online.
Teach & Model Digital Citizenship:
Teach & Model Digital Citizenship:
Practice kindness and respect online.
Discuss privacy settings and why they matter.
Encourage critical thinking about online content
Teach kindness & respect online
Remind your child that what they post online can last forever — encourage them to be kind, respectful, and mindful of what they share..
Monitor Without Spying
Know passwords for younger students; negotiate more independence for older students.
Periodically check-in about what they’re seeing online.
Protect privacy
Review privacy settings on apps and accounts. Teach your child never to share personal information with people they don’t know.
Bark
Monitors text messages, emails, and apps for signs of danger
Qustodio
Monitors online activity, sets screen time limits, blocks inappropriate content
Google Family Link
Manage device access and app downloads
Apple Screen Time
(Built into iPhone/iPad)
Allows parents to set time limits, block apps, monitor app usage, and manage downtime.
Microsoft Family Safety
Helps manage screen time, filter content, and view activity reports for Windows and Xbox devices
Tracks calls, texts, location, and app usage with detailed reporting
NetSmartz
(National Center for Missing & Exploited Children) – free videos and tips for parents
Downloadable Parent Guides
Social Media 101: A Parent’s Guide to Popular Apps
Social Media 101: A Parent’s Guide to Popular Apps
(PDF, from Common Sense Media — translated versions available)
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/social-media-social-life-infographic
Family Media Agreement Template
Family Media Agreement Template
(Helps families set clear screen time expectations)
How to Talk to Your Child About Cyberbullying
How to Talk to Your Child About Cyberbullying
(PDF guide with conversation starters for parents of middle & high school students)
https://www.stopbullying.gov/resources/how-to-talk-about-bullying
Digital Citizenship Tips for Families
Digital Citizenship Tips for Families
Parent Guide to Internet Safety (NetSmartz)
Parent Guide to Internet Safety (NetSmartz)
2023-netsmartz-middle-school-ppt-presenters-guide.pdfFAQ
Q1: How much screen time is too much for my child?
A: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your child’s age, needs, and personality. Try to balance screen time with other healthy activities (schoolwork, sleep, family time, and physical activity). Aim for quality screen time, not just quantity.
Q2: Should I know my child’s passwords?
Q2: Should I know my child’s passwords?
A: For younger students (middle school), yes — it’s helpful to know passwords so you can guide their online use. As your child gets older, negotiate increasing independence while keeping communication open about their online life.
Q3: How do I know which apps are safe?
Q3: How do I know which apps are safe?
A: Check trusted sites like Common Sense Media for updated app reviews. Apps popular with students may have hidden risks — always talk with your child about how they use the app and check privacy settings.
Q4: What should I do if my child is being cyberbullied?
Q4: What should I do if my child is being cyberbullied?
A: Save screenshots of the bullying, report it to the platform, and contact your child’s school counselor or administrator. Offer emotional support to your child and remind them that they don’t have to handle it alone.
Q5: How can I help my child become a good digital citizen?
Q5: How can I help my child become a good digital citizen?
A: Teach them to be kind online, respect others’ privacy, think critically about what they post, and know when to ask for help. Model positive online behavior yourself!
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