What I Wish My Parents Knew About My Online Life

The internet is a huge part of life for young people today—whether it’s for chatting with friends, gaming, watching videos, or learning new things. But sometimes, there’s a gap between how young people and their parents experience the online world.

That’s why we asked young people, “What do you wish your parents knew about your online life?” Their honest and insightful answers helped create this video, which is designed to spark conversations between parents and young people about staying safe online, spotting misinformation, and navigating the digital world together.

After watching, take some time to explore the discussion questions. There are no right or wrong answers— just an opportunity to share perspectives, ask questions, and learn from each other. By talking openly, we can all become more aware, informed, and better equipped to enjoy the benefits of being online while staying safe.

Questions for parents to ask their children

Being online is more than JUST screen time.

  • What do you enjoy most about being online?
  • What’s something you’ve learned online recently that you wouldn’t have learned at school?

I need your support, NOT JUST rules.

  • How can I support you in staying safe online without making you feel like I don’t trust you or I’m spying on you?

It’s NOT always easy to talk to you.

  • What makes it hard to talk to me about your online life?
  • What could I do to make it easier for us to talk about these things?
  • How would you want me to respond if you came to me to talk about something online that upset you or made you feel uncomfortable?

Online problems are real problems.

  • What’s something online that feels like a big deal to you, but you think adults don’t take seriously?

Guide me, don’t guard me.

  • What’s one thing you think I worry too much about when it comes to your online life?

I can teach you things too!

  • What’s something cool online, like a trend, app, video or game you’d like to show me? Can we look at it now?

Questions for young people to ask their parents

Being online is more than JUST screen time.

  • What do you think I’m doing when I’m online? Is there anything about my online life that you would like me to explain?
  • What was your version of “being online” when you were younger?

I need your support, NOT JUST rules.

  • What do you worry about most when it comes to my safety online?

It’s NOT always easy to talk to you.

  • If something went wrong online, what would you want me to do first?
  • If I told you something went wrong online, what’s the first thing you would do?

Online problems are real problems.

  • Do you think online problems can be JUST as serious as real-life ones? Why or why NOT?

Guide me, don’t guard me.

  • What do you think is a good balance between privacy and you knowing I am safe online?

I can teach you things too!

  • Is there anything about being online that confuses you or you don’t fully understand? Maybe I can help explain it.
  • Can you show me something cool you have seen online?