If you’re a parent, you know that the digital-focused world we live in brings a whole new set of challenges. Gone are the days when ensuring a child’s well-being was largely about physical safety and education. Today, we have to deal not just with regular bullying but cyberbullying, as well.

Cyberbullying, a distressing by-product of our online-centric lives, has emerged as a significant threat to young minds. Unlike traditional bullying, it doesn’t end at the school gates and can pervade every aspect of a child’s life, with the potential to be relentless, invasive, and deeply traumatic.

As parents, understanding this phenomenon, its impact, and how it manifests is crucial. Recognizing the red flags of cyberbullying is not just prudent; it’s a necessary step in safeguarding our children’s mental and emotional well-being in this digital age.

What Is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying, a term that has become increasingly relevant in our digital age, refers to the use of electronic communication to intimidate, threaten, or harass an individual.

This modern form of bullying transcends the traditional playground boundaries, occurring through social media, text messages, and other digital platforms. It can manifest in various forms: spreading malicious rumors online, sharing private or embarrassing information without consent, and sending threatening messages.

What is particularly alarming is the rapid integration of technology in education, which, while offering numerous benefits, also opens doors to new forms of harassment. A striking statistic from the world of educational technology (EdTech) underscores this shift.

EdTech usage in K-12 schools has risen by 99% since 2020, signifying a shift towards digital education. This surge in digital learning tools not only changes the educational landscape but also highlights the need for resources that educate about digital safety, including the prevention of scams and fraud, which can be forms of implicit bullying.

They’re suddenly exposed to the entire world wide web, and not a friendly environment where they know their teacher and the other 20 or so children they share the classroom with.

Red Flags Indicating Your Child Might Be Bullied Online

Detecting cyberbullying can be challenging, as it often occurs out of physical view. However, since the hidden nature of this form of abuse can be very brutal to the victim, parents can often notice:

• Academic indicators: A decline in academic performance or an apparent aversion to attending school can be red flags. This might manifest as excuses to avoid school or a lack of interest in homework and assignments.
• Altered eating and sleeping patterns: Noticeable changes in eating habits, such as skipping meals or binge eating, can be indicative of stress or anxiety stemming from cyberbullying. Similarly, disrupted sleep patterns, insomnia, or frequent nightmares are common in children facing online harassment.
• Emotional distress: Perhaps the most telling signs are emotional. Withdrawal from family and friends, a sudden loss of self-esteem, signs of fear or helplessness, and an unwillingness to discuss online activities can all point to a child struggling with cyberbullying.

The Other Side of the Coin: Signs Your Child Might Be a Cyberbully

While much attention is rightly given to identifying victims of cyberbullying, it’s equally important to recognize when a child might be the perpetrator. All it takes is hanging out with the wrong crew on a Discord server, and your child might :

• Aggressive behavior and frequent conflicts: If your child exhibits increasingly aggressive behavior, both online and offline, or seems to be involved in frequent verbal or physical conflicts, it could be a sign of cyberbullying behavior.
• Signs of increased secrecy and possession of unexplained items: A sudden increase in privacy, particularly regarding their digital life, or having new items or money that they can’t or won’t explain, can indicate involvement in negative online activities.
• Shifts in social dynamics: Pay attention to changes in your child’s friend groups and their attitudes toward others. A child who bullies others might display a lack of empathy, be overly concerned with popularity, or have friends who also engage in bullying.

Barriers to Communication: Why Children Stay Silent

Understanding why children often remain silent about bullying experiences is crucial for effective intervention. Here are some common reasons:

Fear and Humiliation

Children may fear retaliation from the bully or feel humiliated about being targeted. They might believe that talking about it will only make the situation worse. And who can blame them, honestly? Especially given the fact many counselors take the zero-tolerance route and effectively prevent bullying victims from defending themselves.

Social Isolation

A child who is bullied might already feel socially isolated and believe that no one cares or could understand their situation. That is, ultimately, one of the bully’s goals—to make the victim feel hopeless, rendering them unwilling to put up a fight. So if you feel your kid is spending less time with his close friends, it might be a sign something is happening.

Concerns About Adult Intervention

Children may worry that involving adults will not help or could lead to more severe consequences from the bully. They might also fear being judged or misunderstood by adults. Once again, they’re not completely wrong in this line of thinking. No matter what, do not victimize, patronize, or suggest that they’re weak. Instead, provide support and security from the get-go.

Proactive Parenting: Initiating Conversations and Building Trust

As parents, it’s essential to create an environment where open communication about online safety is the norm. It’s far, far too late to try to diagnose the situation once your child is already being bullied. Instead, you ought to:

• Start early and be consistent: Engage in conversations about digital behavior, online safety, and empathy from an early age, and maintain these dialogues consistently as your child grows. Explain what bullying is and slowly introduce the child to ‘reality.’
• Create a safe space for communication: Ensure your child feels safe and comfortable talking to you. Avoid reactions that might make them feel judged or scared to share their experiences. If you had something similar happen to you, share it!
• Educate yourself and your child: Stay informed about the latest trends in social media and online gaming. The best way to talk about these things is informally, not through “Hey, sit down, we have an important subject to discuss” and similar methods.
• Listen more than you speak: When your child talks about their online experiences, listen more than you advise. Understanding their perspective is key to providing the right support.
• Model positive online behavior: Lead by example. Show respect and kindness in your own online interactions and discuss why this is important.

Reaching Through the Screen: When Cyberbullying Becomes Real

Oftentimes, cyberbullying is just one step of the wider cycle of abuse. Once the bully establishes control online and realizes they can make the feel victim uncomfortable, no matter how protected they actually are, they want more. This yearning for control inevitably leads to the cyberbullying spilling out into the real world.

It can start from Instagram or TikTok DMs and lead to your child being followed home from school. That’s why a good way to get to the bottom of such situations is to make use of your residential surveillance system and see if your child behaves strangely or has frequent unwanted visitors.

In addition, you should preemptively establish contacts with:

• Teachers
• The principal
• Your child’s friends’ parents
• Coaches and any other community figures

Sometimes, you can’t be clairvoyant and predict your child will be victimized, which is why communicating effectively with educators and other figures will help you find out, even if the child is unwilling to talk at first.

Empowering Parents in the Digital Age

As parents, staying informed, proactive, and engaged in your child’s digital life is key. By being aware of the potential risks and knowing how to address them, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your children in this interconnected world. But most importantly, you should set a proper example and avoid aggressive behavior online yourself.

About the Author:
Ryan Harris is a copywriter focused on eLearning and the digital transitions going on in the education realm. Before turning to writing full time, Ryan worked for five years as a teacher in Tulsa and then spent six years overseeing product development at many successful Edtech companies, including 2U, EPAM, and NovoEd.

Growing up means outgrowing things, and for kids, this often includes their mattresses. But what do you do with a mattress that’s no longer needed? As parents, it’s helpful to recognize that these transitions provide unique opportunities to teach children about sustainability and the value of repurposing.

Throwing it away adds to landfill waste. So, it’s important to find smarter, eco-friendly solutions.

Fortunately, there are options available if you know where to look.  Here are a few practical and creative ways to repurpose your child’s outgrown mattress.

Repurposing Kid’s Outgrown Mattress

It’s no secret that children grow quickly, and with this growth comes a rapid accumulation of items that no longer fit their needs. This includes mattresses, which can contribute significantly to landfill waste.

Here are some ideas to transform it into something new and useful:

Transforming the Mattress into a Playmat or Pet Bed

One of the simplest and most effective ways to repurpose an old mattress is by turning it into a playmat for children or a bed for pets. The padding of the mattress provides a soft and safe area for children to play. For a pet bed, you can cut the mattress to an appropriate size for your pet, cover it with a durable fabric, and have a comfortable bed for your furry friend.

DIY Projects Using Mattress Materials

These are some of the materials of a mattress that can be deconstructed and used in various DIY projects:

• Cushioning: Utilize mattress foam to create comfortable padding in homemade furniture or unique craft items.
• Gardening: Transform mattress springs into innovative garden trellises for plant support.
• Art: Craft artistic installations or sculptures using the springs from the mattress.
• Recycling: Repurpose different mattress materials for various eco-friendly DIY projects.

Learn more about the benefits of art therapy and techniques for working with children.

Crafting Sentimental Items into New Keepsakes

Old mattresses can hold sentimental value, especially if they were part of a child’s early years. Materials from these mattresses can be transformed into keepsakes. For example, fabric covers can be used to create memory quilts or pillows, which will preserve memories in a tangible form.

Assessing and Sorting Outgrown Mattress and Baby Gear

When it comes to managing your child’s outgrown mattress and baby gear, it’s a good idea to approach the task systematically.

Identifying Items for Recycling or Disposal

First, evaluate each item’s condition. If a mattress or baby gear is beyond repair or too worn out for further use, recycling is the best option. However, not all areas have easy access to recycling facilities. Check local waste management guidelines to identify the most environmentally friendly disposal methods. You can find more information about mattress disposal here.

Evaluating What Can Be Donated or Regifted

Donation is a fantastic way to extend the life of gently used items while helping others. Not all charitable organizations welcome donations of baby gear and mattresses, but some do accept them as long as they are in good condition. You could also make sure that these items meet safety standards and haven’t been recalled.

Another thoughtful idea is giving the mattress to a friend who is about to have a baby. If the mattress is still in good condition, it can be a valuable gift. It will save the new mom the expense of purchasing a new one while extending the useful life of the mattress.

Considering Selling Gently Used Items for Profit

Selling gently used baby gear and mattresses can be both profitable and sustainable. Online marketplaces, consignment stores, and local parenting groups are great platforms for this. Remember, the key to successful selling is ensuring the items are clean, in good condition, and meet current safety standards.

When to Decide if a Mattress Should Be Repurposed or Replaced

The decision to completely replace a mattress, whether or not your child has outgrown it, often depends on its age and condition. Most mattresses last about seven to ten years with proper care.

Obvious signs like sagging, visible wear and tear, or if your child complains of discomfort, are clear indicators that it’s time for a new mattress. However, if the mattress is still in good shape but no longer suitable for your child’s needs, repurposing it for other uses in your home is an environmentally friendly option​​.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Mattresses

Investing in a good mattress for your child is crucial for their development and quality of sleep. However, maintaining and caring for the mattress is equally important to ensure its longevity and continued comfort. Proper maintenance can make the mattress last longer. It can also help the mattress better suit your growing child. This may eliminate the need for a quick replacement.

Proper Maintenance of Mattresses

Regularly Rotate the Mattress

Rotating your child’s mattress is essential to prevent sagging and uneven wear. Depending on the type of mattress, follow these recommendations:

• For foam, latex, and newer innerspring mattresses, rotate every 6 to 12 months.
• Older innerspring models may need rotation every 2 to 6 months.
• Note that certain mattresses with specific designs, like zoned ones, should not be rotated, so always check the manufacturer’s guidelines​​.

Use a Mattress Protector

Using a mattress protector helps keep dirt, sweat, dust mites, and moisture away. And it plays a role in maintaining the mattress’s warranty. Many warranties become void if the mattress is dirty. Mattress protectors, typically water-resistant or waterproof, can significantly prolong the lifespan of the mattress by preventing damage from spills and stains.

Clean the Mattress Regularly

Cleaning the mattress on a regular basis, about every six months, is advisable to maintain its hygiene and longevity. Here’s what you should do:

• Vacuum the mattress to remove dust mites and dead skin cells.
• If there are stains, gently blot them with a suitable cleanser.
• Keep the mattress dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use fans or air conditioning to speed up drying if the mattress becomes wet.

Conclusion

When it’s time to deal with your child’s outgrown mattress, it’s not just about making space or getting rid of it. It’s a chance to make smart, eco-friendly choices. By reusing, giving away, or recycling the mattress, you are doing your share to reduce waste. These may be small steps, but they show how small actions can make a big difference. You never know; it might just inspire those around you to think twice before throwing things away.

As technology develops and becomes more complex, parental vigilance needs to extend beyond basic content restrictions. From safeguarding your child’s privacy through VPN servers to teaching them about deepfakes, below are the essential elements needed for the security of children’s data in 2024.

Vigilance by parents to continually educate themselves is paramount because cyber criminals, hackers and online predators are also becoming more savvy.

Use Reputable Security Features

Incorporating reputable security features on devices is the first step to safeguarding digital data to the highest degree.

Here are ways you can protect your family while online:

Get VPN Secure

When it comes to keeping your child’s data safe and secure, parental controls may be the first thing to come to your mind. Restricting certain content is necessary, but many other key security features can better protect your child’s data and online realm. Ensuring your child’s privacy online is crucial, and tools such as VPN for Chrome from reputable brands like ExpressVPN can guarantee anonymity to the highest degree.

A VPN completely masks your home IP address, making it impossible for anyone to figure out where your little online explorer is clicking from. Ultimately, a VPN is one of the best features you can get to ensure that no one will track your child’s data.  Technically savvy predators will also be prevented to know where you live.

Enable Authentication Security Measures

Wherever it’s possible, use a two-factor and multi-factor authentication for your child’s accounts. By adding a second form of verification, such as one-time mobile phone codes, you’re doubling up on your data security measures.

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Encryption

Ensure websites use SSL encryption (look for “https://” in the URL) to protect data during transmission. Website that are not secure will show a warning to the left of the URL.  For example, in a chrome browser it will show a red x and red letters stating, “Not Secure”.

Privacy Settings on Social Media

Review and adjust privacy settings on social media platforms and apps to control who can see your personal information.

Regular Software Updates

Keep operating systems for Windows and Mac up to date.  This happens in the background, as long as you have automatic updates turned on.  Updates are vital to ensure applications are up to date to patch vulnerabilities.

Firewall Protection

Within your operating system look for a firewall setting.  Turn it on to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. This provides an additional layer of defense.

Regular Software Updates

Make sure any software programs you are running are kept up to date.  As with your operating system security, turn on automatic updates so you can rest assured you have the latest version to fix vulnerabilities.

Email Security

Be cautious with email attachments and links. Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Use strong passwords to protect email accounts from being hacked and used to send out scams or spyware.

Explore installing antivirus software to protect against malicious emails

Model Healthy Digital Behavior

According to the BBC, 43% of 7,000 parents surveyed across the UK and Europe were concerned about their child’s gadget use. And perhaps not so interestingly, many parents believed they set a bad example themselves due to their heavy gadget use.

Apple has certainly taken heed of the research in recent years, as proven by their efforts during Safer Internet Day in 2023 – they spotlighted tools and resources to protect children online.

To ensure effective data security online for our children, it’s important to practice what’s preached. Here’s how:

Safe Browsing Habits

Model how to look for secure websites and how to avoid clicking on suspicious links. Show children how you exercise caution when downloading files and installing new apps. Use safe search features on any browser your child frequents.

Digital Footprint

Educate your child on the concept of a digital footprint and how any online action leaves an irreversible trace. Encourage your child to be more mindful of what they share and post and how such actions can contribute to a positive digital reputation.

Good Cyber Hygiene

Be sure to log out of your accounts when they’re not in use, and encourage your child to do the same to ensure online safety. Avoid public computers for data-sensitive tasks at all costs.

Talk About Deepfakes

Explain how sometimes deepfake technology can be used to deceive people, discussing potential consequences. A deepfake is when the face of a real person, such as a celebrity, is placed over someone else’s face to make a fake video. It will give a video great credibility and deceive unsuspecting viewers to click on a link.

This discussion will open up an a much broad conversation about how to use critical thinking and healthy skepticism to debunk information online, no matter what form it is presented, including photoshopped images and unrealistic stunts or antics in videos.

Protecting Your Child Online

By leveraging these security features and modeling behaviors to your advantage, you’ll safeguard your child’s data and stay abreast of any trends and potential challenges in the digital landscape. From here, you’ll be creating a secure and supportive space where your child can learn, connect, grow, and explore online with you by their side.

Privacy concerns have grown as children spend more time using apps and games for educational and entertainment purposes. Children today are at risk from excessive levels of peer pressure and cyberbullying, as well as inappropriate content, online stalking, and screen addiction.

Perhaps one of the most severe but neglected issues is that of privacy. In most jurisdictions, children under 13 cannot have their data sold to data brokers. Yet, a huge amount of data is amassed during their formative years. When a child becomes an adult they can remove their sensitive information or opt out of people search sites altogether. But why not start securing your child’s digital footprint from the outset?

It’s up to parents and guardians to learn about privacy risks and make informed choices on how their children use mobile apps and which platforms have the best privacy measures and age-appropriate content.

Privacy risks associated with children’s app data

According to The London School of Economics and Political Science, children are more concerned about relationships with friends online than the impact of data collection and poor privacy policies. Nevertheless, teaching children how companies and others use their personal information is vital.

After all, a long-term digital footprint can impact a child’s future. Not only can a lack of privacy lead to mental health issues, it can also affect potential employment opportunities, academic admissions, real-world relationships, and personal and professional reputations.

It’s crucial to instill in children the significance of safe and responsible online behavior and the possible dangers of sharing personal information. This approach can promote positive behavior among their immediate social network, making everyone safer.

Methods for guarding children’s app data privacy

Weak security measures or inadequate parental controls can lead to a third-party accessing data without permission. Deceptive and malicious practices can result in manipulative marketing tactics, stolen identities, or harassment of children. Implementing strong passwords and two-factor authentication is standard, but it’s just part of what must be done to ensure privacy.

Equipping children with practical tools, guidelines, and educational tips can empower them to navigate the digital world confidently. Start by doing the following:

Read privacy policies and terms of service

• Review privacy policies and terms of service agreements thoroughly before agreeing.

TIP: Understand how your information will be used and protected. Remember to:

• Add parental controls and ways to limit data collection.
• Adhere to age restrictions and age-verification practices.
• Monitor online interactions, filter content and data sharing.
• Avoid pay-to-win models and apps with microtransactions.
• Use our safe app search resource to screen websites.

Use parental control tools

• Use parental control settings to manage their online activities, limit screen time, and control shared information.

TIP: Use content filters and restrictions, limit app downloads, and manage app permissions. Remember to:

• Apply content filters and restrictions.
• Limit the number of app downloads.
• Manage app permissions.
• Get tools for preventing cyberbullying.

Seek out the best reviews and recommendations

• Filter reviews to get the most informed recommendations.

TIP: Seek out reputable platforms and forums that specialize in app and website evaluations.

Remember to:

• Find reviews from trusted sources or experts in the field.
• Seek diverse opinions from various users or communities.
• Look for detailed assessments on specific drawbacks.
• Trust impartial, unbiased, and unsponsored reviewers.

Educate yourself and your child

• Teach your child about data privacy and responsible internet use. Tailor your approach to suit your child’s age and maturity level.

TIP: Tailor your approach to suit your child’s age and maturity level. Remember to:

• Discuss privacy basics, i.e., full name, address, school name, phone number, and passwords.
• Give real-life examples to illustrate the importance of safeguarding information.
• Explain what it means to be responsible online.
• Adapt the message to their age and level of maturity.

Stay updated on regulations

• Learn about the online privacy laws that apply to your children.

TIP: Look into online privacy laws specific to your region. Remember to:

• Check out the relevant COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) or GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) rules;
• Read up on updates or amendments to be fully aware of your rights.
• Trust authoritative federal and state sources, e.g., the Federal Trade Commission (FTC);
• Only accept reputable resources from organizations specializing in child online safety, e.g., the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU).

Use child-friendly platforms

• Choose platforms and apps that offer privacy protection and age-appropriate content.

TIP: Ensure your chosen apps and platforms align with your child’s age group to guarantee appropriate content.

• Opt for child-friendly platforms with suitable content.
• Prioritize apps labeled with “Kids” or “Family.”
• Verify privacy measures that prioritize privacy protection.
• Set advanced privacy settings for as much control as possible.

Engage in open communication

• Encourage open communication with your children about their online activities.

TIP: Start by discussing their enjoyable online experiences.

Remember to:

• Ask about internet activities: “What’s your favorite thing about using the internet?”
• Discover their online issues: “Do you ever feel uncomfortable or unsure about something you see or do online?”
• Encourage safe sharing: “Let’s talk about what information is safe to share online.”
• Set guidelines: “Can we set some guidelines together for internet usage?”.

Monitor downloads and app permissions

• Read about an app before downloading it to see if it involves targeted advertising or data mining.

TIP: Be cautious with permissions that seem unrelated to the app’s primary function. Remember to:

• Deny excessive permissions that seek unnecessary personal data.
• Scrutinize app descriptions before downloading.
• Assess user reviews to identify user concerns.
• Opt for essential permissions that don’t demand unnecessary access.

Secure devices and networks

• Secure your devices and home network.

TIP: Protect your devices with up-to-date security software and robust, unique passwords.

Remember to:

• Integrate encryption protocols to protect your home network.
• Incorporate firewalls for added security.
• Add host-file filters like Pi-Hole.
• Get commercial security software and a VPN

Encourage critical thinking and caution

• Teach children to question information, verify facts, and be cautious about sharing personal details.

TIP: Help your children adopt a well-rounded approach to digital safety and privacy. Remember to:

• Discuss real scenarios to identify misinformation and teach caution.
• Have a motto: use “Think Before You Click” as a quick reminder for online safety.
• Foster an environment where children feel comfortable asking questions about online content.
• Emphasize the importance of seeking clarification when uncertain about a given online situation.

Community and education in safeguarding children online

Beyond individual parental control measures, foster a community ethos that values online safety and privacy. Parents, teachers, and companies should collaborate to create a safer online environment for children. Working as a community can make online interactions safer. For instance, integrating comprehensive educational initiatives within schools, organizations, and homes can give children the confidence they need to navigate online environments.

Collaborative efforts among parents, educators, policymakers, and technology companies are pivotal in creating a more secure and nurturing online environment for our children. Improving internet and social media literacy and instating privacy-by-design regulations can enhance their experience.

Recommendations

It can be difficult to understand the world of children’s apps and the specific risks that exist for children. Even so, parents and other adults should find a balance between allowing children to use the latest technologies and ensuring their privacy and safety. While predicting the consequences of growing up online is tough, parents should remain vigilant in finding ways to shield their children’s sensitive information from bad actors.