Once children have access to the internet, the journey of fostering digital resilience continues. Here’s how parents can support their children in this stage.

Ongoing Communication and Supervision. Maintaining open lines of communication is vital. Regularly check in with your child about their online activities. Ask about the websites they visit, the games they play, and the friends they interact with online. Encourage them to share their experiences, both positive and negative, and assure them that they can come to you with any concerns.

Teaching Digital Etiquette. Good manners extend to the digital world. Teach your children about digital etiquette, including the importance of being respectful and kind online. Discuss the consequences of cyberbullying and emphasise the significance of treating others with the same respect they expect in return. Encourage them to think before they post or comment, considering how their words might affect others.

Monitoring Screen Time and Content. Continue to monitor your child’s screen time and the content they access. Use parental control tools and settings to restrict access to inappropriate content. Be aware of the games and apps they use, ensuring they are age-appropriate and safe. Discuss the reasons behind these restrictions and involve your child in setting boundaries, which can foster a sense of responsibility.

Promoting Positive Online Activities. Encourage your child to engage in positive online activities that promote learning and creativity such as educational websites, coding programs, and online courses. Support their interests and help them find safe, constructive ways to explore their passions online.

Building Digital Literacy. Digital literacy goes beyond basic internet use. Teach your children how to evaluate online information critically. Discuss how to identify reliable sources, verify facts, and recognise biased or false information. Equip them with the skills to discern credible content from misinformation, fostering a sceptical and informed mindset.

Encouraging Healthy Online Relationships. As children interact with peers online, it’s essential to guide them in building healthy digital relationships. Discuss the differences between online and offline friendships and the potential risks of online interactions. Encourage them to be cautious about sharing personal information and to understand the importance of privacy settings.

Addressing Online Risks. Prepare your child to handle online risks such as cyberbullying, phishing, and exposure to inappropriate content. Discuss these risks openly and provide strategies for dealing with them. For example, teach them to block or report harmful users and to avoid clicking on suspicious links. Make sure they know to seek help from a trusted adult if they encounter any troubling situations online.

Balancing Online and Offline Activities. Promote a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Encourage your child to participate in physical activities, hobbies, and face-to-face interactions with friends and family. Model this balance in your own life, demonstrating the value of unplugging and enjoying real-world experiences.

Staying Informed and Updated. The digital landscape is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends, apps, and potential risks in the digital world. Engage with other parents, educators, and online resources to keep up-to-date with new developments. Being well-informed will enable you to guide and protect your child as they navigate their digital journey.

By providing ongoing support and guidance, you can help your child develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. This stage is crucial for reinforcing the foundations of digital resilience and ensuring your child remains secure and confident online.