Inappropriate Content

Inappropriate content online can take many forms, such as upsetting images, videos, or words. Sexting involves sharing private pictures or messages, which can lead to issues like catfishing (when someone pretends to be someone else) or the misuse of images, including realistic AI-generated fakes. Other harmful content may include violence, drug use, or self-harm. Encountering this at a young age can leave kids feeling confused or unsure how to respond.

Guidance

Recognize the Risks

Monitor where they spend time online, such as social media, gaming platforms, or streaming services.
Explain how inappropriate content can appear unexpectedly, even on trusted sites.
Talk about what to do if a peer shares inappropriate material through text, memes, or social media.

Teach Skills

Show how to block or report inappropriate content on apps and websites.
Set parental controls to filter adult content and ensure your child uses platforms appropriate for their age and maturity.
Talk about risks like catfishing and AI-generated content, encouraging skepticism about who they interact with online.

Set Rules Together

Collaborate on clear rules for acceptable online behavior and content.
Review these rules regularly to ensure they align with their growth and maturity.
Include guidelines about privacy, like not sharing personal information with strangers.

Conversation Starters

Inappropriate content isn’t always obvious. Help them recognize subtle forms of harmful material.
Encourage them to use child-friendly search engines to minimize exposure to adult content.
Keep communication open—children may hesitate to share if they encounter something upsetting online. Reassure them they won’t get in trouble for asking for help.
Explain the permanence of online posts. Let them know that even deleted content can be saved or shared by others.
Discuss how small actions, like liking or sharing an inappropriate post, can make them complicit in harmful behavior.

Conversation Starters

Ask them what they think inappropriate content looks like and how they might recognize it.
Talk about the types of things they could come across on the internet and guide them on what to avoid.
Discuss how they might handle it if a friend shares something inappropriate. Encourage them to stand up for others or seek help when needed.
Ask if they know how to block or report inappropriate content. Offer to show them how to help them feel prepared and confident.
Reassure them that it’s always okay to come to you if they see something upsetting. Keeping calm and open conversations can build trust and make them feel safe.
Talk about the websites and apps they enjoy and help them discover age-appropriate options that match their interests.
Ask how they decide who to share personal information with online and explore strategies for protecting their privacy and staying safe.