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 the online safety by age guide
Age-appropriate strategies and tools for keeping your children safe online at every stage, from age 3 to 18.
Download the Online Safety by Age 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.