Social media, video games, and all these apps evolve so quickly that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. A new app becomes popular almost overnight, a game goes viral, an influencer grabs everyone’s attention… and we, as parents, wonder: “Okay, but what is this? And is it appropriate for my child?”
You don’t need to be a tech expert to support your child. What matters most is being curious, present, and keeping the dialogue open. Here are some tips to understand their digital world and build trust around their Internet use.
1. Take an Interest in What They Like
Even if TikTok confuses you or you don’t get much about Roblox, asking simple questions makes a huge difference.
Examples:
- “What do you like about this game?”
- “Who’s your favorite creator on Insta/TikTok?”
- “How do you use this app?”
The goal isn’t to judge, but to understand. The more your child feels that you genuinely care about their world, the more they will want to share with you.
2. Dive a Little into Their World
You don’t need to create accounts everywhere. However trying an app or playing a few rounds with them helps you see what they see.
- Watch TikTok videos with them.
- Play a round of Fortnite or Roblox.
- Ask them to show how Snapchat or Discord works.
These small moments create connection and help you stay tuned to their digital reality.
3. Stay Informed, Without Pressure
Trends change fast, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. A few easy tips:
- Subscribe to newsletters on cybersecurity or digital parenting.
- Follow organizations that share advice (👋 The Missing Children’s Network).
- Check out popular apps in the Apple/Android stores.
- Ask directly: “What new apps is everyone using?”
You don’t need to know everything, just maintain a general overview.
4. Open Communication: the Foundation of Everything
Our kids often navigate online better than we do… but they don’t always see the risks. Keep the dialogue open about:
- Privacy
- Friend requests from strangers
- Suspicious messages
- Sharing photos
- Toxic behaviour in games
An effective phrase: “If something online makes you uncomfortable, come talk to me. You’re never punished for that.”
5. Set Clear and Appropriate Boundaries
The goal isn’t to control, but to guide.
- Reasonable screen time and device-free moments (meals, evenings, bedtime).
- Private accounts if possible.
- No sharing personal information.
- Age-appropriate games and apps.
Be consistent but flexible according to your child’s maturity.
6. Enroll Your Child in a Prevention Program
An important tip is to enroll your child in the SHINE prevention program, offered by the Missing Children’s Network. This program helps youth better understand online risks, develop tools to protect themselves, and learn how to ask for help when something goes wrong. We invite you to talk directly to your child’s school or teacher so they can participate in the SHINE workshop.