If you have kids in your life, no doubt you’re familiar with the local playground. Synonymous with adventure and fun, playgrounds are places of connection and discovery. But the reality of growing up in a digital world is that our kids are also engaged in online playgrounds. And just as we would scan our local park for suitable equipment, safe surrounds and positive social interactions, we can be just as proactive online. Because a safe and clean environment, whether it’s at the park, or online, makes for healthy and happy kids. Let’s get into it!
Kids today are growing up in a world where their physical and digital environments are increasingly merged. Few days go by untouched by connectivity… smart boards at school, reading apps, social media, telehealth and digital payments to name a few. Kids may surprise you with how much they know about risks and privacy issues online. But despite this awareness, research shows that there is a disconnect between what kids know they should do, and their actions.
According to “Mind the Gap” research from eSafety Commissioner, “children’s perceptions of the internet are more positive than negative overall – but they are cautious, with many noting it can be harmful.” The report also notes there “remains significant gaps in parental awareness of children’s online lives.” Some common risks that young people face include:
Cyberbullying
Inappropriate content
Privacy issues
Online predators
Misinformation.
When children learn how to navigate the intricacies of online life with good decisions and choices, a world of infinite possibility opens up to them.
Digital tools can make learning interactive and exciting, complementing traditional methods and explaining complex concepts in innovative ways. Digital literacy is also an important skill for the future.
When managed safely, connecting with like-minded friends online can build community. It can also help kids find their tribe by joining groups with shared hobbies or interests outside their geographic location.
From coding to digital art, kids have access to boundless apps and tools to create. With a focus on creating over consuming, kids can express themselves in ways we couldn’t have imagined in decades prior.
Research shows many children go online for health information, and emotional support. But they still need guidance on the most appropriate resources.
Social media has been an undeniable force in driving social change with online campaigns such as #Metoo making real-world impact. When we equip kids with digital skills, we given them the power to be engaged social citizens.
We've rounded up 5 top steps you can take to clean up your family’s digital environment, as recommended by research from The Online Health and Safety Taskforce.
Talk as a family about fair ground rules for digital consumption. How much screen time is okay? Which apps and tools? There are some helpful tools, such as the eSafety Commissioner’s Family Tech Agreement. Remember to review your plan regularly so it grows with your children.
Instead of focusing on reducing screen time, how about brainstorming some fun family projects? Playing board games, building things, listening to music, and going for walks are all social activities that might even become a new ritual.
Maintain open and non-judgmental communication about social media use, so that your child knows they can come to you for help. Stay up-to-date with the latest safety issues, so you can help your child manage bullying and report content. Check out Childsafe and eSafety Commissioner for useful resources.
Reflect on your own habits – could you benefit from a digital detox? Maybe you could make a change together as a family. Demonstrating healthy habits is good not just for kids but for adults too!
Not all content is created equal, and you’re in charge of the shows your family consumes. Common Sense media is a helpful guide for breaking down themes and messages in movies and shows. You can also manage apps and internet usage in your household with tools like Telstra Device Security.
For more ideas and resources for supporting your family’s digital journey, be sure to check out Telstra Foundation’s partner, Digital Child who have produced the informative Manifesto for a Better Children’s Internet.
While you’re busy leaning into your kids’ digital life, never fear, we’re doing our bit too. Read on to learn more ways we’re supporting young people become healthy and happy digital citizens.
As the country’s most trusted telco provider, Telstra doesn’t take the responsibility of caring for Australian families lightly. That’s why we’re proud to be the first Australian company to join UNESCO’s business council to promote ethical AI. This means we’re dedicated to developing and promoting technologies that filter inappropriate content and protect children’s privacy.
Full of informative content and great tools, our Family Hub is a one-stop-shop for families wanting to upskill on all things digital.
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Much like wearing a seatbelt, Telstra’s Device Security is a safeguard for your child’s online activities. With robust parental control features and security powered by McAfee, you can rest assured that we’re working as hard as you are to keep your family safe.
Learn more about the Device Security add on
We know that technology is an important part of life - but not every child has equal access. Reducing the gap with programs that benefit under-served communities underpins Telstra’s philanthropic arm. The work tackled by Telstra Foundation aims to promote not only digital literacy and safety, but equal access to opportunity.
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Let’s work together to create a future where children can explore, learn, and grow safely and confidently in an interconnected world.
We've partnered with award-winning cyber security experts at McAfee to offer you comprehensive protection for all your family devices.
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