Don’t look away: Have a conversation about online safety today

Don’t look away. The conversation starts here.

As part of Internet Safety Month, we are encouraging more people to engage in conversations about child safety in the digital age. 

Today’s kids are growing up in a world where socializing, learning, and exploring increasingly happen online. But as technology evolves, so do the risks kids face. In those same digital spaces they can be exposed to grooming, manipulation, and exploitation.

40% of children ages 9–17 report being approached online by someone attempting to befriend or manipulate them. Kids are increasingly exploring, spending time, and building relationships online. But behind some of those interactions, some people may be seeking to exploit or harm them.

These issues are difficult to face, which is exactly why conversations about them matter. You don’t have to be a parent, caregiver or even have kids in your life to care. 

Protecting children in the digital age takes more people willing to engage openly about the realities young people face online. Yet for many people, knowing how to talk about these issues, or even where to begin, can be overwhelming.

Our “Don’t Look Away” Conversation Starter Kit was created to help make that first step easier. The guide offers simple ways to start these important conversations.

It can be as simple as asking, “How do you think things have changed for kids growing up today?” and letting the conversation flow. Readers will find statistics, information about online child sexual abuse and exploitation, reflection questions, conversation starters and shareable resources.

The hardest conversations are often the most important ones. Starting them takes courage, and even one conversation is a powerful first step. Thank you for standing with us and helping create a safer digital age for kids.  

Download our “Don’t Look Away” Conversation Starter Kit today.