Helping Youth Navigate the Online World Safely
Technology has become a major part of everyday life for young people. From schoolwork and entertainment to friendships and communication, kids are spending more time online than ever before. While the Internet provides valuable opportunities to learn and connect, it also presents challenges that families and communities cannot ignore.
Each June, National Internet Safety Month serves as a reminder to focus on protecting children and teens in digital spaces through awareness, education, and prevention.
The Importance of Online Safety for Youth
Today’s digital landscape can expose children to serious risks, including cyberbullying, online exploitation, inappropriate material, and threats to personal privacy. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) has reported a steady rise in incidents involving online exploitation in recent years.
At the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide (ICPYAS), we are committed to helping families and schools take proactive steps to create safer online experiences for young people.
Educating Kids and Caregivers About Digital Safety
ICPYAS proudly provides NetSmartz, an interactive educational program developed by NCMEC that teaches children how to make safe and smart choices online. Through engaging lessons, videos, conversations, and age-appropriate activities, students gain practical knowledge about topics such as:
Keeping personal information private
Identifying and avoiding online predators
Handling cyberbullying situations
Understanding the long-term impact of sharing content online
In addition to student education, we provide resources and training opportunities for parents, caregivers, and educators to help them guide healthy conversations about internet use and digital responsibility.
Make Online Safety a Priority
Parents, teachers, caregivers, and community members all play an important role in helping young people stay safe online. National Internet Safety Month is an opportunity to strengthen awareness and encourage safer digital habits that continue throughout the entire year.
At ICPYAS, we encourage people to BE BRAVE online.
To learn more about ICPYAS digital safety programs or to schedule a training session, visit our website indianaprevention.org.
Together, we can help build a safer and more informed digital future for Indiana’s youth.
Catherine Pearsall, Development Director
