Internet Safety for Kids & Teens
The online world offers endless opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection, but it also comes with risks that children and teens may not always recognize. Understanding how to stay safe online is essential for protecting privacy, wellbeing, and digital reputations. Parents, caregivers, and youth can work together to create safe habits that support healthy technology use. Below you will find practical tips and trusted resources to help young people navigate the internet with confidence.
- Be careful what you tell people. If you aren't sure, ask a trusted adult. When online, never give:
- Your name
- Where you live
- Your phone number
- Your school information
- Be very careful with what you post online. Once it's shared, it can be near impossible to delete, even with apps like Snap Chat. If you're having a problem with something you shared, check out NeedHelpNow.ca
- Never agree to meet with anyone you've chatted with or sent email to on the Internet, unless your parent or guardian gives permission and goes with you to meet the person. Always be in a public place.
- Remember that people may not be who they say they are. It's easy to pretend to be someone else online.
- If you receive any messages that make you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult. Sending unwanted messages can be a criminal offence. Contact the police if you believe you are the victim of a crime.
If you have any questions or concerns, ask a trusted adult. You don't need to worry about whether the question may seem simple or embarrassing.
Remember that the only dumb question is one that isn't asked!
Resources for Teens and Kids
Need Help Now
Provides youth and parents with information about how to manage self/peer exploitation (“sexting”) incidents. The site features:
• Steps youth can take to request images/videos be removed from websites
• Advice for how to involve a safe adult
• How to recognizing when things have gone too far
Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French.
Phone:1-800-668-6868
Text: 686868
Canadian Centre for Child Protection
Offers trusted resources for youth, caregivers, and adults to help prevent child abuse, online exploitation, and victimization. The site provides education, reporting tools, and support services designed to enhance child safety and assist families in times of crisis.
Zoe & Molly Online
An interactive series that gives kids in Grade 3 and 4 an opportunity to have some fun while exploring what it means to be safe while playing games online. All the components of the Zoe & Molly Online program, including comics, an interactive game and online safety quiz, provide an engaging learning experience for children. As children progress through the website their level of internet safety knowledge and confidence will increase.