Communication & Monitoring
CSNP Family Safety Resource | www.csnp.org
Communication & Monitoring
Age-appropriate strategies for talking to children about technology and monitoring their digital activities while maintaining trust.
Download Communication & Monitoring Guide
Complete guide with age-specific strategies, conversation scripts, monitoring recommendations, and trust-building activities.
Download Guide (PDF)What's Included
Age-Based Strategies
Communication approaches for ages 5-8, 9-12, 13-15, and 16-18
Monitoring Levels
Appropriate supervision levels from high to minimal monitoring
Conversation Scripts
Ready-to-use phrases for daily check-ins and difficult discussions
Trust Building
Principles for maintaining safety while respecting growing independence
Communication Principles
- Be transparent about monitoring and explain the reasons behind it
- Apply rules consistently and follow through on promises about trust
- Honor their growing need for independence and privacy as they mature
- Give them tools and knowledge to make good decisions independently
Balance Is Key
Over-monitoring can damage trust and push children to hide their activities. Under-monitoring leaves them vulnerable. The right balance shifts as children grow—what works for an 8-year-old won't work for a 15-year-old.
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