Parents should engage in open conversations with their children about online content, especially unwanted sexual material, to foster a safe digital environment. Digital education consultant Dennis Lindholm Nielsen emphasizes the importance of remaining calm and supportive when children share their online experiences. He advises against overreacting, as it can discourage children from seeking help in the future.
Nielsen highlights the necessity of creating a consistent digital dialogue with children. Just as parents inquire about their children’s experiences in sports or other activities, they should also show interest in their online activities. This can help parents understand what their children are encountering and identify potential issues.
One effective method is to share online feeds with children. Nielsen suggests asking children about the coolest content they have seen each week, which opens a channel for discussing any concerning or frightening content. This can be incorporated into a regular routine, such as before bedtime or a weekly treat.
When children claim “everyone else is doing it,” parents should inquire about who “everyone” is and use the opportunity to set boundaries. It’s crucial to help children understand that certain content is not appropriate for their age group and that it’s acceptable to have different boundaries than their peers.
Nielsen also recommends downloading apps together with children. This allows parents to discuss the app’s purpose, potential risks, and set boundaries for its use. This proactive approach can help children navigate online platforms safely and responsibly.
If a child describes content as “mega disgusting,” parents should acknowledge their feelings and use it as a starting point for discussion. It’s important to differentiate between reality and content created for adults. Talking about these unpleasant experiences is far better than allowing children to become trapped in algorithms they cannot control.