08/15/2026
New School Year = Smart Safety Conversations
Many schools now limit cellphone use during the school day, but students may still have access to phones on the bus or before and after school. Even if your child does not have a phone, they may still be exposed to dangerous content through peers' devices. That makes now, before the school year starts, a great time to talk with children about Safe Pictures/Videos and Trusted Adults.
The reality is that children may encounter inappropriate, harmful, or dangerous content online earlier than many adults realize. A 2023 Common Sense Media survey found that 54% of teens were first exposed to online po*******hy before age 13, with the average age of first exposure being 12 years old.
Exposure to violent and harmful content is common online. According to Bark's 2024 Annual Report, 82% of teens have encountered violent content, including threats, fights, and weapons. Many also see content promoting unhealthy body image, self-harm, dangerous trends, and substance use.
Teach your child that Safe Pictures/Videos are:
• Photos and videos of family, pets, nature, school activities, and other things that make them feel happy and comfortable.
• Images shared with permission and in appropriate settings.
Teach your child that Unsafe Pictures/Videos are:
• Images or videos showing private body parts or people without clothes.
• Pictures or videos that feel scary, violent, confusing, or wrong.
• Content that makes them feel uncomfortable, worried, or unsure.
• Anything shared secretly or with pressure to keep it a secret.
Remind your child: If you see something confusing, upsetting, or inappropriate online, STOP, leave the screen, and tell a Trusted Adult. And remind them that they will never be in trouble for telling you or another trusted adult.
Prepare, don't panic. These conversations help children respond safely when something doesn't feel right. Remember, ongoing discussions matter most. The more you talk, the more likely they'll come to you for help.
