What if my child refuses to give me their phone?
Focus on connection before control. Escalating quickly can increase secrecy. If there is imminent risk, safety comes first. Otherwise, keep the door open for conversation.
Who should educators contact if a student discloses online exploitation?
Educators should follow mandated reporting laws and school protocols, while prioritizing student safety and confidentiality.
How do I know if something is serious enough to step in? What if I am wrong and overreact?
If a child feels scared, pressured, confused, ashamed, or afraid to tell you, that alone is enough reason to step in. Harm does not always look dramatic. Many harmful situations begin quietly and escalate over time. Children often minimize experiences because they are trying to protect themselves, protect someone else, or avoid getting in trouble. […]
What should I do if my child is targeted by a deepfake image?
Save evidence. Report the image to the platform. Notify the school if peers are involved. Seek professional support. Treat it with the same seriousness as any other form of sexual exploitation.
What if my child freezes or did not fight back?
Freezing is a very common survival response. It is automatic and happens when the brain senses danger and chooses the safest option in the moment. It does not mean agreement, weakness, or consent. Children and teens often blame themselves for freezing. They may think they should have done more or spoken up. Reassuring them that […]
What are the most important safety settings to check on my child’s socials?
Set accounts to private. Limit direct messages. Turn off location sharing unless needed. Control who can comment or tag. Review followers regularly. Use built-in family supervision tools.
What if my child seems confused afterward, or even misses the person who hurt them?
Mixed emotions are very common. Children can feel relief, sadness, anger, attachment, and confusion all at once. Missing someone does not mean the harm was okay or imagined. You can say, “Feelings can be complicated. You can miss someone and still know that what happened wasn’t okay.” This helps your child avoid judging themselves for […]
Are parental controls enough to keep kids safe?
No tool is foolproof. Controls reduce risk, but open communication and regular check-ins are just as important.
How do I help my child without taking away all their independence?
Trauma takes away a sense of control. Restoring appropriate choice is part of healing. When safety steps are needed, explain them as temporary and protective, not as consequences. Invite your child into decision-making when possible. Ask what feels helpful, what feels overwhelming, and what support they want. Even small choices can help rebuild trust and […]
How often should I review my child’s online activity?
Think of it as ongoing, not one-time. Quick, regular check-ins are more effective than surprise inspections.