Back-to-school safety: Protecting children online and off

As summer winds down and families gear up for a new school year, many parents are focused on supply lists and schedules. But back-to-school season is also an important time to revisit how we keep children safe at school, online, and during after-school activities. 

Cyberbullying: what parents need to know

When today’s adults were students, social media did not exist. Now, it’s where many children spend a large portion of their time. That creates new risks, including cyberbullying. 

Cyberbullying involves using digital tools such as text messages, social media, apps, or gaming platforms to harass, threaten, or target another person. It can be public or private, but it always has the potential to cause real harm. 

Children who are new to a school, dealing with anxiety or depression, or already feeling isolated may be more vulnerable. But any child who uses the internet can be at risk. 

Here are some signs your child may be experiencing cyberbullying: 

  • They suddenly stop going online 
  • They seem upset, anxious, or withdrawn after using a device 
  • They avoid school or social events without explanation 
  • They change online habits or become secretive about what they are doing 

What helps most is open conversation. Talk regularly with your child about what they see and do online. Ask if anything has made them feel uncomfortable or hurt. Let them know it’s always okay to tell you, even if they’re unsure.  

You can also help prevent cyberbullying by: 

  • Setting up age-appropriate parental controls 
  • Monitoring the apps and social platforms your child uses 
  • Searching their name occasionally to see what content comes up 
  • Encouraging them to be an “upstander,” not a bystander, when they see others being bullied online 

Bring an online safety workshop to your school or youth group.

After-school safety: questions to ask and steps to take 

Whether your child plays sports, takes art classes, or attends an after-care program, safety does not stop when the bell rings. As a parent or caregiver, you can take steps to ensure after-school settings are safe and well-prepared. 

Start with these questions: 

  • Have all staff and volunteers completed background checks? 
  • Does the program have clear rules against one-on-one, unobservable adult-child interactions? 
  • Are there policies in place to prevent and respond to abuse, including appropriate use of social media? 
  • What medical information does the program have on file for your child? 
  • Who is authorized to pick up your child, and does the program have that information in writing? 

For sports programs in particular, ask about emergency protocols. Make sure the coaches or staff have your most current contact information and are familiar with your child’s medical needs. 

Planning for emergencies at school 

It’s also important to review school policies around emergencies like weather-related closures, lockdowns, or evacuations.  

Here are a few things you can do: 

  • Provide the school with a list of approved adults who can pick up your child 
  • Sign up for emergency text alerts or phone notifications if your school offers them 
  • Talk with your child at an age-appropriate level about what to do if plans change or they cannot reach you right away 

Your role matters 

Children thrive when adults around them are aware, prepared, and involved. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, coach, or program leader, the steps you take today can prevent harm tomorrow.