OPINION — Summer is a time when kids and teens look forward to more freedom, more time with friends and a break from the structure of school. But for many families, summer also brings more unsupervised screen time and more opportunities for young people to encounter unsafe situations online.
Phones, gaming, social media and group chats are now part of how kids connect. Technology can help young people build friendships, express themselves and stay connected to their communities. But without healthy boundaries and open communication, the digital world can also increase exposure to cyberbullying, online coercion, explicit content, predators and mental-health challenges.
Prevention starts with education, connection and early action. Internet safety should not be about fear or shame. It should be about giving kids and families the tools they need to make healthy choices, get informed and know when to ask for help.
