Ages 10 to 13
For parentsThe years their world moves online and their friends start to matter most. These lessons are for you to have with them, and some are made to read together.
What they're ready to learn
Life lessons for 10–13
When an online friend wants a secretPeople who target children online often start with compliments, attention or gifts, then ask to move to a private app, keep secrets or send photos. If a child is being threatened over an image, it is a crime and never the child's fault: don't pay, keep the evidence, don't forward anything, and get help from a trusted adult, Take It Down and the CyberTipline.13 sourcesDraft · DraftingDon't forward it, don't pile onAt this age, children have real power to hurt or protect each other online. Teach them that online behavior should match in-person behavior: never forward sexual images of anyone, never pressure anyone, and pay attention to other people's comfort.12 sourcesDraft · DraftingLeave the pile-on, check on the targetWhen cruelty spreads online, children who are watching have real choices: don't join in or share, step away, keep evidence, block and report, quietly support the person being targeted, and tell a trusted adult. Getting help for someone else is not tattling.10 sourcesDraft · Drafting
Is your school teaching this?Questions to ask your child's school, a letter you can adapt, and ways to help.Ask your school
Coming later: for kidsShort videos and stories children can watch or read with you. Until then, every lesson here is written for you to share in your own words.
Last updated [not yet reviewed]Reviewed by Stacy WillisSummarized from public sources with the help of AI, reviewed by Stacy Willis.How this site is made