In recognition of Keep Your Kids Safe Online Month, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul is urging parents to prioritize conversations about online safety with their children. “Talking to kids about online safety is a critical part of parenting in 2024,” Kaul stated, emphasizing the need for open dialogue as kids navigate the internet.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force recommends that parents engage in discussions about potential online dangers. Key topics include the websites children visit, the individuals they communicate with, and any experiences that make them uncomfortable.
Resources like NetSmartz, offered by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, provide valuable tip sheets, age-appropriate videos, and activities to facilitate these discussions. For younger children, the “Into the Cloud” program uses engaging animated videos to introduce online safety concepts in a fun way.
As children grow, safety conversations should evolve. Kaul suggests short, casual check-ins about online activities and encourages parents to express interest in their teens’ digital interests, paving the way for discussions about safety risks.
The ICAC Task Force, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, has created the interact! program—a three-module course aimed at fostering discussions about online safety. Each module lasts 15-45 minutes and includes activities for parents and children.
Additionally, the ICAC Task Force produces the Protect Kids Online (PKO) podcast, offering insights for parents on combating online exploitation, cyberbullying, and safe sharing practices. More information and episodes can be found on the Wisconsin DOJ website.
For parents, engaging in ongoing conversations about online safety is essential in helping children navigate the digital world safely.
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