Today's kids and teens have never known a world without the internet or smartphones. And while there are many benefits to online life, there are also risks.
Kids who spend more time on screens are more likely to show symptoms of anxiety and depression. And a recent study of Ontario teens found that one in five had experienced cyberbullying.
So, there are many reasons for parents, youth leaders and pastors to be concerned. But there’s a lot we can do to keep kids safe online.
On this episode, Nancy Turley, territorial abuse advisor for Canada and Bermuda, walks us through some of the dangers young people may face online, and shares practical suggestions and steps parents can take to stop problems before they start.
Further Reading and Resources:
Online Child Sexual Exploitation (Public Safety Canada)
Online Safety (KidsHealth)
Digital Safety Resources (Be Internet Awesome)
NetSmartzKids
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt