Children don’t always have the words to describe what they’re absorbing online. Instead, changes often show up in behavior, mood, or language. You might notice increased secrecy, sudden anger, withdrawal, anxiety, changes in sleep, or new phrases that seem out of character.
Rather than confronting them with suspicion, approach with curiosity. You can say, “I’ve noticed you seem more stressed lately, and I want to check in. Is there anything online or at school that’s been bothering you?” This keeps the focus on their well-being rather than monitoring or control.