Episode 30 – How to Talk to Your Kids About Digital Safety: No Lectures, No Fear, Just Common Sense
Welcome to another episode of FamilyCyber.ie — where we share simple digital safety habits and online privacy tips for those of us who want to make life harder for the digital Voldemorts out there.
🟢 This episode is based on the original Spanish version of CiberseguridadParaFamilias.com. It’s been translated using AI so more people can access these tips in English.
Today we’re talking about something that matters to every parent and grandparent: How to talk to your children about staying safe online.
Many adults worry about what kids do on the internet — but they don’t always know how to bring up the topic. Sometimes they’re afraid, sometimes unsure, and sometimes they don’t want to come across as controlling.
📌 It’s not about banning things — it’s about being there.
Children and teens live in a digital world. We can’t (and shouldn’t) cut them off from it. But we can teach them how to move through it more safely.
You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to know how to ask, how to listen, and how to build trust.
🔎 Tips for calm and useful conversations:
- Speak from curiosity, not fear. Instead of asking, “What are you watching?”, try: “What do you enjoy most on your phone?”
- Share your own digital mistakes or doubts. That shows them you’re learning too — and it invites them to be open.
- Avoid quick judgments. If they tell you someone strange messaged them, don’t jump to “Why didn’t you block them?” Listen first.
- Reinforce the positive. Say things like, “Thanks for telling me” or “I’m glad you trust me with this.”
🔄 Related Episodes
- Episode 7 – Why you should always lock your phone
- Episode 9 – What is social engineering and how to protect your trust
- Episode 13 – Long passwords aren’t enough: how to stay safer
- Episode 28 – You can be their digital trusted person — just by being present
💡 A phrase that can open many doors:
“I don’t know much about this, but I’d love to learn with you. Can you show me?”
Sometimes, letting them be the expert is the best way to start the conversation.
🏁 Conclusion
You don’t need to have all the answers. But you do need to be ready to talk without judging, to guide without controlling, and to learn together.
✅ Because when we talk about digital safety, we’re really talking about caring for the people we love most.
📌 This has been another episode of FamilyCyber.ie — where we share simple digital safety habits and online privacy tips for those of us who want to make life harder for the digital Voldemorts out there.