Internet Safety for Kids — Parent Guide 2026

Children are online earlier than ever. This guide helps parents protect their kids at every age. Check any app's safety at nerq.ai/is-[app]-safe-for-kids.

Ages 5-8: Supervised Use Only

• Always supervise screen time
• Use YouTube Kids instead of regular YouTube
• Disable in-app purchases on all devices
• Use parental controls on tablets and phones
• Stick to age-rated apps (check ratings at nerq.ai)

Ages 9-12: Guided Independence

• Teach about not sharing personal information
• Review friend lists and chat features together
• Set up screen time limits
• Discuss cyberbullying — what it is and what to do
• No social media accounts before 13 (legal requirement)

Ages 13+: Building Digital Literacy

• Have open conversations about online risks
• Teach about phishing, scams, and fake news
• Review privacy settings together on social media
• Discuss the permanence of online posts
• Model good digital behavior yourself

Apps to Check

Use Nerq to check any app: Roblox · TikTok · Discord · Fortnite · Minecraft

Related Guides

Updated March 2026. Source: Nerq independent analysis.