5 Ways to Keep Children Safe Online
Practical tips for parents and caregivers
The internet can be a powerful place for learning, creativity and connection—but it also comes with risks, especially for children. From online scams and inappropriate content to privacy concerns and AI tools, many parents are unsure where to begin.
Keeping kids safe online doesn’t mean banning devices or monitoring every click. It starts with open conversations, shared boundaries and helping children learn how to protect themselves as they grow.
With many children receiving new devices, games or apps during the holiday season, this is an especially important time for parents and caregivers to talk about online safety and set shared expectations from the start. Save the Children's experts are here to help.
1. Agree on Online Boundaries Together
Sit together to agree on simple rules about devices. Decide where devices stay at nighttime, who children can talk to or play with and what to do if something feels wrong.
Switch on privacy settings, spending limits and safer defaults.
2. Help Children Spot Scams and Online Risks
Talk calmly with your child about fake ‘in’ game offers or people who ask for names, images or money.
Make it clear they will not be in trouble if they click on something or feel pressured, and that you will sort it out together. Show them how to spot issues, block, report and ask for help.
3. Talk About Safe and Respectful Image Sharing
Talk about consent and dignity with your child when sharing images of other people. Encourage them to ask permission before posting pictures of other people.
Ask them to let you know if they notice an image being used to threaten or embarrass someone, so you can act quickly together.
4. Focus on Quality Over Screen Time Limits
Instead of counting every minute of screen time, pay attention to what they are doing and how they seem afterwards. What leaves them relaxed or creative versus tense or upset?
Shape some gentle boundaries around sleep, movement and family time, focusing on better online experiences rather than just less.
Focusing on quality screen time can include age-appropriate educational websites and apps that support learning while children are online — like those recommended by Save the Children.
5. Set Clear Rules for Using AI Tools
Many children already use AI tools, such as chatbots, to help with homework and to better understand topics.
Rather than banning them, sit together and agree on some rules. Discuss not sharing personal details, not using AI to secretly finish schoolwork, and not relying on it for health or emergency advice.
Mark Safer Internet Day 2026 by Protecting Children Online
Safer Internet Day will be observed on February 10, 2026. The global awareness day highlights the importance of helping children learn, play and connect safely online.
Save the Children works with families, schools and communities to protect children from online harm and support safer digital skills—on Safer Internet Day and throughout the year.
FAQs: Keeping Children Safe Online
Why is it important to talk with children about their online activities?
Talking openly about online activities helps children feel supported and more likely to share concerns. Discussing online experiences in the same way as offline ones builds trust and strengthens children’s ability to stay safe.
What personal information should children avoid sharing online?
Children should avoid sharing information that could identify them, such as their full name, address, school, location, images or financial details. When unsure, they should be encouraged to ask a trusted adult for advice.
Why don’t children always report online problems?
Children may worry that reporting a problem will result in losing access to devices or the internet. Creating a calm, non-judgmental environment helps children feel safe asking for help.
What online risks should adults be aware of?
Risks can include bullying, harmful content, grooming, exploitation and recruitment into criminal or extremist activities. These risks may be more intense online and require clear guidance and safeguards.
How can adults encourage healthy technology use?
Adults can encourage healthy habits by setting routines together, modeling balanced technology use, being present during screen time and providing engaging offline alternatives.
What should I do if a child has been harmed online?
Remain calm and listen carefully. Reassure the child that they are not to blame. Seek appropriate support, follow safeguarding procedures, and report concerns to relevant authorities if a crime is suspected.