by Ann Marie Morrow, AWC Finland
Have you spoken to the youth in your life about online safety?
Do they know what to look out for?
I came across a great resource for teens recently published by Protect Children. Katie Lindqvist, daughter of FAWCO member Tracy Dolan, interned at this organization over the summer. One of the projects she worked on with the Protect Children team was a guide for teens on how to stay safe in online chats.
Protect Children is a Helsinki-based organization that works to advocate for child rights and prevent sexual violence against children. Their international team of specialists works from multiple angles to raise awareness and protect children, especially in the online environment.
This proactive guide helps youth feel empowered to keep their online interactions safe. It gives teens tools to identify harmful behavior, know what to do if something feels wrong, and reassures them “you are not alone, and it is not your fault.”
Spot the Signs: A Guide for Youth on Manipulation, Red Flags, and Safety in Online Chats
- How to spot warning signs of manipulation in online chats
- Examples of red flags
- What to do if you feel unsafe
- Emphasizes that you are not alone in dealing with the online world
- There is no shame in asking for help
- It is never the fault of the receiver of concerning messages
- Turning to a trusted adult is never a bad idea
This guide is available as a PDF.
More Resources:
Learn more about the organization Protect Children.
Their website also offers resources for parents and educators.
