This article shares a list of rules with easy, child-friendly explanations you can use in conversation with your child, especially when using the Internet on a phone, tablet or computer for the first time. You can add new rules as they get more accustomed to the Internet and their usage changes.
1. Don’t Share Personal Information
This means you must never give anyone you meet online your full name, address, school name, phone number, or password.
Why it’s important: Just like you wouldn’t tell a stranger where you live, keeping this info private keeps you safe from people who might not be nice.
2. Use Strong Passwords
This means that you should choose passwords that are hard to guess and not share them with anyone (except parents).
Why it’s important: A strong password is like a secret key—it keeps your accounts safe from people who want to snoop or take your stuff.
3. Never Talk to Strangers Online
What this means: If someone you don’t know messages you, don’t reply. Let your parents know. Sometimes they will ask you to keep your friendship secret and not to tell anyone. But you must always tell your parents when a stranger tries to contact you.
Why it’s important: Not everyone is who they say they are online. It’s better to be safe and stick to talking to people you know.
4. Ask Before Clicking
This means you must not click links, buttons, ads, or pop-ups without checking with a parent.
Why it’s important: Some links can take you to dangerous websites or put viruses on your device. In the same way that germs can make you sick, these viruses can make your device sick or stop it from working completely.
5. Always Tell a Trusted Adult if Something Feels Wrong
This means that if something you see, read or hear online makes you scared, upset, or confused, talk to a parent or guardian immediately.
Why it’s important: You’re not alone—grown-ups are here to help, and they can fix problems you might not know how to handle.
6. Be Kind and Respectful
This means you must treat people online like you’d treat them in person—no teasing, bullying, or saying mean things. It is also important to speak up if someone else is being unkind to someone else.
Why it’s important: Being kind keeps the internet a happy and fun place for everyone. Nobody likes feeling hurt.
7. Only Download with Permission
This means that you must not download games, apps, or files unless a parent says it’s okay.
Why it’s important: Some downloads can hide harmful stuff that could break your device or steal information.
8. Don’t Post Photos Without Permission
This means you must always check with your parents before sharing pictures of yourself, your family, or your home, even if you send them to a friend.
Why it’s important: Pictures can give away clues about where you are, and we want to keep that private.
9. Use the Internet in Shared Spaces
This means staying where parents can see what you’re doing, like in the living room or kitchen.
Why it’s important: It’s easier for grown-ups to help if you use the internet in a shared space.
10. Stick to Safe Websites
What this means: Use websites, apps, and games your parents know are okay for kids.
Why it’s important: Some websites aren’t made for kids and can have scary or inappropriate stuff.
11. Think Before You Post
What this means: Everything you share online is there forever. Even if apps say that they can delete the picture or post after a few minutes, it is never really off the Internet. Always think about how it will make others feel and if it’s okay for everyone to see.
Why it’s important: Protecting your reputation is important, even online. You want to be proud of everything you share.
12. Log Off When You’re Done
This means there are some devices, websites, apps and other systems that need your username and password to use them. When you are finished with these services, you need to sign out or log out of them before you leave.
Why it’s important: Logging off stops others from messing with your accounts or seeing your personal stuff.
13. Balance Screen Time with Other Activities
What this means: Take breaks from devices and enjoy time playing, reading, or being outside.
Why it’s important: Too much screen time isn’t good for your body or mind. It’s healthy to do other fun things too!
14. Don’t be afraid to talk to your parents
This means that even if you are afraid that you might get into trouble, disappoint your parents or feel embarrassed and ashamed, you must always talk to your parents.
Why it’s important: Sometimes people do unkind things to each other on the Internet. Sometimes people can make mistakes. You need to know that your parents will love you no matter what happens. Even if they feel a little disappointed or worried at first, they will support and help you.