Privacy for children

In today’s connected world, children grow up surrounded by technology—from smartphones and tablets to smart toys and classroom apps. While digital tools offer many benefits, they also raise critical questions about privacy. How much do kids know about protecting their data? And how can parents guide them?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Parents: Building a Foundation of Digital Privacy

Why It Matters

Children are increasingly targeted by advertisers, social platforms, and even hackers. According to a UNICEF report, 1 in 3 internet users is under 18. Yet most are not equipped to make informed decisions about their data.

🧠 Children can't give informed consent like adults can—so the responsibility starts with us.

Common Risks

• Tracking by apps: Many free apps collect location, contacts, and browsing behavior.
• Oversharing: Kids may share personal info like addresses or school names without understanding the risks.
• Sharenting: Parents sometimes unintentionally expose their children’s identities online.

Practical Tips for Parents

✅ Start Early
Begin teaching about privacy as soon as your child uses any digital device.

✅ Set Rules
Use parental controls, but explain why they exist. Empower children, don’t just restrict them.

✅ Be a Role Model
Don’t overshare family moments online. Always ask for their permission before posting pictures.

✅ Choose Tools Carefully
Prefer apps and platforms that comply with privacy laws like COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) or GDPR-K in the EU.

🧰 Resources for Parents

• Common Sense Media – Reviews of kid-safe apps and games with privacy ratings
• Be Internet Awesome – A Google initiative to teach kids about online safety
• 5Rights Foundation – Advocacy for children's digital rights
• Protecting Your Child’s Privacy Online (FTC) – Official tips from the Federal Trade Commission

🧒 For Children: Keeping Your Digital Self Safe

What is Privacy?

Privacy means keeping your information safe. It’s like locking your diary or your room—some things are just for you.

🔐 Your name, address, photos, and what you do online should not be shared with strangers.

5 Golden Rules

1. Don’t share personal info
   No full names, schools, addresses, or phone numbers online.

2. Ask before clicking “OK”
   Some games or websites ask for permission to track you. Always ask an adult.

3. Be careful with photos
   Never post pictures of yourself without checking with a parent or guardian.

4. Say NO to strangers
   If someone you don’t know messages you, don’t reply—tell an adult right away.

5. Passwords are secrets
   Never share your password, not even with your best friend.

🧩 Fun and Educational Tools

• 🕹️ Interland Game – Play games to learn about online safety
• 🐙 The Smart Talk – A conversation builder for families about tech use
• 🧠 NetSmartz Kids – Videos and games from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

🎯 Final Words

Privacy isn’t about hiding—it’s about choosing what to share and with whom. Teaching children about privacy early gives them the tools to navigate the digital world safely and confidently.

Whether you're a parent helping your child learn or a kid exploring the internet, remember:
Privacy is your power.