Protecting Children Online: A Guide for Parents in the Digital Age

At Moses Movement, we know that exploitation doesn’t just happen in dark alleyways or faraway places—it often begins right under our noses, in our homes, through the glowing screens of our children's devices.

The internet is a powerful tool for connection and creativity, but it's also a gateway to potential dangers like grooming, sextortion, bullying, and exploitation. That’s why digital safety is just as important as body safety. And just like with body safety, the key to online protection is open, ongoing conversation.

📱 Understanding the Risks

Children and teens today live in a digital world. They’re on social media, in gaming apps, and video chatting with friends—and sometimes with strangers pretending to be friends. Traffickers often exploit these platforms to groom kids, gain their trust, and lure them into dangerous situations. Many times, this begins with:

• Seemingly innocent conversations

• Requests for photos

• Offers of gifts or flattery

• Manipulation through threats or blackmail

  
  

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to be a tech expert to protect your child—you just need to stay engaged.

💬 Start the Conversation

Children are more likely to open up if you've created a culture of trust at home. Here are some tips to guide your conversations:

• Be curious, not critical. Ask questions about what apps they’re using and who they talk to online.

  
  

• Don’t overreact. If your child shares something concerning, stay calm so they’ll continue to confide in you.

  
  

• Explain the risks without fear-mongering. Say things like, “There are some adults who pretend to be kids to trick people online. I want you to be safe.”

  
  

🔐 Set Digital Boundaries

1. Use parental controls on devices, browsers, and apps.

2. Keep devices in shared spaces, especially during screen time.

3. Set screen-free zones like bedrooms at night or the dinner table.

4. Require approval for new apps or online games before they’re downloaded.

5. Limit social media access for younger children, and supervise use for older ones.

   
   

🚩 Red Flags to Watch For

• Your child becomes secretive about online activity

• New “friends” you don’t recognize, especially adults

• Receiving gifts or money from unknown sources

• Drastic changes in behavior, mood, or sleep patterns

• Using apps that hide messages or photos

  
  

🛡️ Equip Your Child to Stay Safe Online

• Teach them not to share personal information.Full names, addresses, schools, and even location-sharing should stay private.

• Remind them: Never send photos—especially private ones.Even if it feels like a game or challenge, photos can be used for exploitation.

• Encourage them to tell you if someone makes them uncomfortable online.Assure them they’ll never be in trouble for telling the truth—even if they made a mistake.

  
  

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Be the Safe Place

At Moses Movement, we believe in creating trauma-informed homes and communities where children feel seen, heard, and safe. The online world is constantly changing, but one thing remains the same: your child needs your guidance, not just rules.

✨ Take the First Step

👉 Need help starting the conversation? Download our free 10 Ways To Protect Your Children Online Guide and begin protecting your home today.

Visit mosesmvmt.org/resources for more tools to educate, equip, and empower your family.