Keeping Kids Safe Online During the School Year

Backpacks are packed and school bells are ringing once again. As kids settle back into another school year, it’s time for a reminder about staying safe online.

Thanks to technology, students are learning digitally, researching online, and collaborating virtually. But while the digital world opens up exciting educational opportunities, it also brings new challenges — especially when it comes to keeping kids safe online.

At WoodmenLife, we care about protecting families in every way possible. That includes helping parents and guardians navigate the digital world their children are growing up in. With your children back in school, now is the perfect time to review internet safety basics and build healthy online habits that will last all year long.

Rob LaMagna-Reiter, Vice President & Chief Information Security Officer at WoodmenLife, offers his thoughts about internet safety, as well as tips for keeping kids safe online.

Why Internet Safety Matters

From classroom tablets to homework apps to group chats, kids are more connected than ever. But with that wide-ranging connection comes exposure to risks. These risks include:

• Cyberbullying
• Inappropriate content
• Online predators
• Phishing scams
• Data privacy concerns

The good news? With a few proactive steps, you can be confident in and informed about keeping kids safe online.

While the digital world opens up exciting educational opportunities, it also brings new challenges — especially when it comes to keeping kids safe online.

Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Online

1. Start the Conversation Early

Talk openly with your child about the internet: what they use it for, who they talk to, and what they see. Encourage questions and create a judgment-free space where they feel comfortable coming to you with concerns.

2. Set Clear Rules and Boundaries

Establish screen time limits, approved websites, and guidelines for social media use. Consider creating a family tech agreement that outlines expectations for both kids and parents.

3. Use Parental Controls and Privacy Settings

Most devices, browsers, and apps offer built-in parental controls. Use them to filter content, monitor activity, and limit screen time. Also, help your child adjust privacy settings on social media to control who can see their posts and contact them.

4. Teach Smart Sharing

Remind your child to never share personal information — like their full name, school, address, or phone number — online. Help them understand that once something is posted, it can be difficult to take back.

5. Encourage Critical Thinking

Teach your child to question what they see online. Not everything is true or safe. Help them recognize red flags like suspicious links, fake profiles, or messages from strangers.

6. Stay Involved

Know what apps and websites your child uses. Play games together, explore educational tools, and stay engaged in their digital life. The more involved you are, the more likely they are to come to you when something doesn’t feel right.

School Safety Plan

As your child settles back into another school year, take time to refresh your family’s digital safety plan. Just like you prepare them with school supplies and lunchboxes, preparing them with knowledge and tools for safe internet use is just as important.

At WoodmenLife, we’re proud to support families in building strong, secure futures — both online and off. Let’s make this school year a safe, successful one for every student.

For more information about WoodmenLife and how we can help protect your financial future, visit WoodmenLife.org.

Written by: Gary Peterson, Senior Copywriter

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