Online Safety and Awareness

With children spending more time online, especially on social media, it’s important for families to stay informed about the potential risks and how to navigate them safely. This resource is designed to raise awareness and provide helpful tips for parents and guardians in supporting their child’s safe and responsible use of the internet.

While the internet offers countless opportunities for learning and connection, it also comes with challenges like cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and online predators. In Illinois, laws are in place to protect children from cyberbullying and online harassment, and schools are committed to addressing these concerns. By staying informed, parents and families can play an active role in promoting safe digital habits.

Key Tips to Stay Aware and Keep Your Child Safe:

Set Clear Expectations
- Have open conversations about responsible internet use, including how much time your child spends online and which platforms they use. Many devices also offer parental controls to help manage screen time.

Know Their Platforms
- Stay familiar with apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Each has privacy settings that can be adjusted to help protect your child’s personal information.

Encourage Open Communication
- Create a judgment-free space where your child feels comfortable sharing their online experiences. Let them know they can always come to you if something makes them feel uncomfortable.

Emphasize Privacy
- Review privacy settings together and encourage your child to keep their accounts private. Regularly check their friend lists and ensure they only connect with people they know in real life.

Teach Strong Password Habits
- Help your child create secure passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. A password manager can also be helpful for keeping accounts safe.

Recognize and Address Cyberbullying
- Talk about the signs of cyberbullying and empower your child to block or report harmful behavior. Schools are ready to provide support if needed.

Stay Alert to Scams and Phishing
- Remind your child never to click on suspicious links or share personal information online. Help them recognize phishing attempts and other online scams.

Understand Age Restrictions
- Most social media platforms require users to be 13 or older. Monitor your child’s accounts and ensure they’re using age-appropriate platforms.

Signs to Watch For:

Helpful Resources:

📌 Illinois State Board of Education – Internet safety standards and instruction.
📌 Safe, Smart & Social – Understand tech and social media to keep kids safe online.
📌 Common Sense Media – Expert reviews and advice on apps, games, and online safety.

Downloadable Guides: