All of the power internet resources available are accessible through devices that fit in the palm of our hands allowing for instant communication to an unlimited number of individuals and unlimited content 24/7. Content, videos and photos can be both downloaded and uploaded and shared through the use of mobile phones and other digital devices, challenging the ability of parents to monitor online activities and access.
Digital devices, such as smartphones and tablets, while convenient and mobile, can open up a Pandora’s box of dangers for children and adolescents, including inappropriate content such as pornography and violent material, which can have a damaging impact on young, impressionable minds.
The connectivity of these devices makes them a breeding ground for cyberbullying and harassment, where children can be the targets of relentless online abuse. Sexual predators use online platforms to make contact with minors for the purpose of online sexual exploitation and abuse.
The ability to upload and download pictures and videos also leaves children vulnerable to having their intimate images shared without consent, and potentially used for the purpose of “revenge pornography” or online sexual extortion (“sextoration”).
Beyond content-related risks, excessive use of digital devices can lead to phone/device addictions and the dangerous habit of texting while driving, putting young lives at risk. Overall, the unfettered access to the internet and social media that digital devices provide can expose children and adolescents to a wide range of physical, emotional, and psychological dangers that parents and guardians must be vigilant in monitoring and mitigating.
Portable devices that access the internet, including smartphones, smart watches, portable media players, gaming consoles and tablets have increased both the benefits and the threats that children face.
These threats include:
- Easy access to pornography, violent content and other inappropriate content
- Cyberbullying and harassment
- Contact by a predator, trafficker or other dangerous contact
- Picture and video uploads and downloads
- Direct access to social networking sites
- Texting while driving/distracted driving
- Phone/device addictions
- Revenge Porn/Sextortion (non consensual distribution of intimate images and sexual extortion) (See “Sexortion 101” Quick Guide)
- Phishing and imposter scams
Further, concerns exist around electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by cellphones and potential health effects, especially with long-term exposure. While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that prolonged and close-range use of cellphones may contribute to biological changes in the brain or increase the risk of certain health issues, such as headaches, sleep disturbances and other symptoms. Children may be more vulnerable due to their developing brains.
Sexting is the act of sending, receiving, or sharing sexually explicit messages, images, or videos, typically through digital devices like smartphones or computers. Among youth, sexting often begins as a form of flirtation or an attempt to gain attention or affection. However, it can quickly escalate into a serious issue, particularly when images are shared without consent (non consensual imagery), fall into the wrong hands, or are used to bully, shame, or exploit the sender. Many young people don’t fully grasp the long-term consequences of sexting, including legal implications and the emotional toll it can take.
Sexting is alarmingly common among teens and preteens. Studies show that around 1 in 5 teenagers have sent or received sexually explicit content. With the widespread use of smartphones and social media, it’s easier than ever for teens to engage in sexting without fully understanding the risks involved. For children and adolescents, sexting can lead to reputational damage, emotional distress, and even criminal charges in some jurisdictions, especially when the content involves minors.
Preventing sexting among youth involves open communication, education, and digital monitoring. Parents and guardians should talk honestly with their children about the dangers of sharing explicit content, emphasizing the importance of respect, consent, and online privacy.
Additionally, using parental control tools and staying involved in children’s online activities can help adults spot potential warning signs early. Ultimately, fostering trust and creating a safe space for kids to ask questions or report concerns is key to helping them make responsible decisions online.
Motivations and Risks of Teens who Engage in “Sexting“
Motivations:
- Teens often engage in sexting as part of romantic or flirtatious communication, peer pressure, curiosity, or to seek attention or validation
- Although most teens who send sexually suggestive content are sending it to boyfriends and girlfriends, others say they are sending such material to those they want to hook up with or even to someone they only know online.
- Some feel coerced or pressured to send sexual images, which raises serious concerns about consent and emotional safety.
Risks:
- Teens are conflicted about sending/posting sexually suggestive content–they know it’s potentially dangerous, yet many do it anyway.
- Young people who receive nude/semi-nude images and sexually suggestive texts and emails are sharing them with other people for whom they were never intended.
- Teens who sext are more likely to report depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially if the sexting was coerced or if the content was shared beyond the intended recipient.
- Legal consequences: In some states, minors who share explicit images—even of themselves—can face child pornography charges, though many jurisdictions are reforming these laws.
- Reputation and social fallout: When sexts are leaked or shared non-consensually, it can lead to cyberbullying, shaming, and harassment.
Distracted driving diverts attention from driving, which includes talking or texting on a phone. In particular, texting is the most alarming distraction. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds, and at 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. This can lead to enormous potential for death and injuries! Driving requires one’s full attention!
Most states have enacted laws to limit or outlaw the use of mobile devices while driving, unless the device is connected to an earpiece or other hands-free product.
Browsing the web and texting from behind the wheel is very dangerous and has contributed to car accidents and deaths of adults and children. Wireless users need to remember that safety comes first when you are in the driver’s seat.
Tips for Teens:
- Be smart. Don’t text and drive. No text message is worth being distracted while you drive.
- Be in control. Remember it’s your phone. You decide if and when to send and read texts so take control. Consider turning your phone off, setting it to silent or even storing it in the glove box before hitting the road.
- Be caring. Never send a text message to a friend that is driving to meet you, or to anyone you know is likely behind the wheel.
- Be a BFF. Friends don’t let each other text and drive.
Tips for Adults:
- Be a resource. Share information with your teen about the risks of texting while driving.
- Be an example. Don’t send the wrong message by texting while you drive. Your teen will follow your example.
- Be caring. Don’t send a text when you know your teen is driving. Wait for them to call or text you once they have arrived safely at their destination.
- Be aware. Know your options. Check with your mobile provider to see what options they offer parents to manage their teen’s cell phone and text messaging activity.
- Watch a texting and driving video scenario with your kids and driving teens about how quick an accident can happen.
Above all else, the message is simple, yet vital: When it comes to texting and driving, It Can Wait.
While digital devices can offer access to educational content and provide a way for social connection, moderation is essential. Balancing screen time with physical activity, real-world interactions, and healthy sleep habits is crucial for the well-being of children and adolescents.
Screen time addiction, particularly among kids and adolescents, has become a significant concern in recent years. Studies show that many adolescents spend upwards of 7-9 hours a day on screens, not including school-related use. The rise of smartphones and social media has accelerated screen time, with many children starting to use devices at a young age. The rise of smartphones and social media has accelerated screen time, with many children starting to use devices at a young age.
Research indicates that screen time has increased significantly over the past decade, with a marked rise during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why the Reliance On Screens in the First Place?
Oxytocin
- Social Bonding: Often referred to as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released during social interactions. Social media can stimulate the release of oxytocin when users engage with friends or family, reinforcing the desire to connect online.
- Rewarding Social Interactions: Positive interactions on screens can enhance feelings of trust and bonding, making users more likely to seek out these experiences repeatedly.
Dopamine
- Reward System: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain’s reward system. Engaging with screens—whether through social media likes, gaming achievements, or notifications—can trigger dopamine releases, creating a feeling of pleasure.
- Addictive Cycle: The anticipation of rewards (likes, comments, or game wins) can lead to compulsive screen checking, as users seek to replicate those pleasurable experiences, reinforcing addictive behavior.
Cortisol
- Stress Response: Cortisol is known as the stress hormone. High levels of cortisol can lead to anxiety and stress, prompting individuals to seek comfort in screens as a coping mechanism.
- Avoidance Behavior: When faced with stressors, people may turn to screens for distraction or escape, leading to increased screen time as a means of managing negative emotions.
The interaction between these hormones creates a feedback loop: social interactions (oxytocin) and rewarding experiences (dopamine) can help alleviate stress (cortisol), reinforcing screen use as a coping strategy. This cycle can lead to increased reliance on screens for emotional regulation and social fulfillment.
Concerns Around Screen Time Addiction include:
Excessive screen time poses significant risks that can affect both physical and mental well-being. Signs of excessive screen time include physical symptoms like eye strain and headaches, mental health issues such as increased anxiety, social withdrawal, neglecting responsibilities, and compulsive checking of devices. If you notice these signs with your child, it may be time to reassess his or her digital habits for a healthier balance.
Mental Health Problems:
- Anxiety and Depression: Excessive screen time is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression among young people.
- Social Isolation: Over-reliance on screens can lead to reduced face-to-face interactions, contributing to feelings of loneliness.
Physical Health Problems:
- Obesity: Sedentary behavior associated with excessive screen time can lead to obesity and related health issues.
- Sleep Disruption: Screen use, especially before bedtime, can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to insufficient rest potentially causing mood disturbances, weight gain, impaired memory and concentration, weakened immune systems, among other concerns.
- Eye Strain: Experiencing discomfort, dryness, or blurred vision.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches can result from prolonged screen use.
- Poor Posture: Back, neck, or shoulder pain from sitting in one position for too long.
Impact on Development:
- Cognitive Development: High screen time can affect attention spans, learning, and overall cognitive development.
- Behavioral Issues: Children may exhibit increased aggression or desensitization to violence due to exposure to violent content.
Academic Performance:
- Decreased Focus: Excessive gaming or social media use can distract from studies, negatively impacting academic performance.
- Sleep Deprivation: Studies show that many adolescents spend upwards of 7-9 hours a day on screens, not including school-related use.
Healthy Habits to Embrace over Screens:
- Restricted use in the morning. Don’t use your phone as an alarm clock. That way you don’t even need to pick it up and you can have some time first thing – ideally an hour – without a screen.
- Taking a proper lunch break. Do you use a screen for work? If so, having a lunch break away from any screen (including your phone) is a great idea. Plan a walk and just enjoy some fresh air or do an errand.
- Meal times with your family or friends. If you’re spending time with people, it’s nice to be present. It sounds like something your parents will have told you as a teenager, but enjoying a dinner without devices is good for everyone involved.
- Avoiding screens before bed. Looking at a screen too close to bedtime can impact how easily you’ll fall asleep, so it’s a key part of the day to cut down on your usage.
Several considerations should be taken into account when determining whether a child is ready to use a smartphone or digital device connected to the internet.
Ultimately, readiness may vary by each individual and family preference. Some questions to consider include:
Is your child developmentally ready?
Consider the child’s age and emotional maturity. Younger children may not have the cognitive skills to navigate online risks. Can your child understand and handle the long-term consequences of digital behavior (e.g., privacy, sexting, screen addiction)?
Is your child responsible?
Assess their ability to handle responsibility and follow other rules. such as homework and chores. Does your child typically obey other rules you implement? Is your child able to properly take care of and manage a digital device? Will your child be able to abide by set rules about usage, including time limits and acceptable behavior online?
Can your child self regulate?
Do they have a healthy balance between digital and offline activities (ie. sports, after school club, outdoor time?)
Does your child have general internet safety awareness?
This includes having a strong sense of safe online behaviors, practices and precautions to help protect them from online threats such as online predation, sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content, among others. (See our “Rules ‘N Tools”)
How does your child interact with other peers offline or handle difficult situations?
Consider how the child interacts with his or her peers. Are they able to navigate social situations? Report dangerous or inappropriate behavior to a trusted adult? This can help to gauge possible readiness for social media use (most platforms require children to be at least 13 years of age) or online gaming.
What are your family values and boundaries?
What role do you want technology to play in your home? Are you prepared to monitor, guide, and have ongoing conversations about their smartphone or digital device use?
If you make the choice to allow your child access to a smartphone or other internet-enabled device:
- Consider a trial period with limited access to see how the child manages the device and adheres to the rules.
- Have your child sign our “Family Contract for Smartphones and Digital Devices“, or use it to create your own.
- At Enough Is Enough, we support delaying the giving of smartphones to children until at least the end of 8th grade. (“Wait Until 8th”), and then, only if absolutely necessary.
Smartphones designed specifically for children and teens offer several important benefits that help families balance connectivity with safety. These devices often come with built-in parental controls, allowing caregivers to monitor usage, set screen time limits, and restrict access to age-inappropriate content. This helps foster healthy digital habits while reducing exposure to online risks such as cyberbullying, explicit material, or contact from strangers.
Child-focused smartphones typically have simplified user interfaces and limited apps, making them easier to use and less distracting. Some models are designed to prioritize essential functions like calling, texting, GPS tracking, or emergency alerts—giving parents peace of mind while allowing children a degree of independence. Additionally, these phones can serve as helpful tools for teaching digital responsibility in a gradual and controlled environment, preparing children to manage more advanced devices as they grow.
EIE’s Smartphone Safety Settings Guide, a vital resource includes navigable links to the most important safety and privacy settings for specialized phones designed for use by children and teens, along with information about the basic parental controls available in Apple and Android smartphones. Parents can help their children use smartphones in a safer way by talking to them about online risks, which include contact with online predators, traffickers, bullies as well as exposure to inappropriate content. Additionally, parents are encouraged to set safety rules, use parental controls to ensure their kids use smartphones safely.
Plan:
When choosing a mobile device, helpful questions to ask your provider include:
- Does this device connect with the internet, and if so, how can internet access be turned off or blocked?
- Can I limit my child from visiting certain sites through this digital device?
- Do you provide filtering and monitoring solutions? If so, how can they be installed? How will I receive reports regarding what my child has accessed?
- Does this device send and receive texts, emails, photos, and video messages? If so, how can these features be turned off and/or monitored?
- Does this device include time limiting software to limit the length of calls and times of day calls are made and received?
- Can I limit the phone’s address/contact list to a parent-approved list?
- Can this phone block individuals from sending content and texts to my child?
Additionally, to reduce the risk of possible health effects resulting from electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by cellphones, health experts recommend using speakerphones or headphones and limiting direct contact when possible.
Prevent: Rules ‘N Tools:
THE TEN "Rules ‘N Tools®" FOR CHILD ONLINE SAFETY
Offensive and defensive strategies designed to protect the innocence and safety of children in the digital world.
Implementing both Safety "Rules" and Software "Tools" on all digital devices, online platforms and services used by your child will help to ensure a safer online experience for them, and peace of mind for you. One without the other is ineffective.
"Rules" A Parent’s Offensive Strategy (Non-technical measures)
- Communicate often about online privacy and safety with your child:
- Talk regularly about online activities and stay engaged and involved; build an atmosphere of trust early on.
- Encourage them to think before they post and avoid sharing personally identifiable information (PII) including date of birth, address, full name, school, or other information that can be used to identify and track down a child.
- Instruct them to never send or share explicit images or messages.
- Teach them to avoid meeting in person with someone they only met online because they cannot recognize a disguised predator.
- Direct them to use safe search engines and cybersecurity protections.
- Require parental permission before using third-party apps as many access private information and profiles.
- Warn then about the very real dangers about online predators, traffickers and grooming tactics. Recognize red flags and avoid anyone who attempts to move conversations to unmonitored platforms, private spaces, text and email.
- Use privacy settings on all social media and gaming platforms and block strangers.
- Instruct them to report any inappropriate or threatening messages or requests to social media or gaming platforms, or to authorities if necessary. Tell a parent immediately.
- Supervise your child’s online activities:
- Ensure your child feels safe discussing anything they encounter without fear of parent overreaction. Be a trusted adult. Remind them that no conversation is off limits.
- Consider delaying access to internet-enabled devices until you are certain your child can demonstrate responsible digital habits and the maturity to use and manage technology appropriately.
- Approve all apps, games and platforms your child uses.
- Friend/follow your child’s accounts and know their usernames, passwords and login details on all devices.
- Monitor posts, photos/videos, browser history, messaging and location sharing settings.
- Teach your child digital etiquette:
- Practice the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
- Avoid harmful bullying, gossip or hurtful posts; there are no “take backs”.
- Respect others’ privacy and avoid sharing embarrassing content.
- If you see something, say something. If you believe someone you know is in harm's way, tell a trusted adult.
- Teach your child responsible device and technology use:
- Follow family technology rules at home and away. Maintain full transparency about texts, messages and apps, avoid “hiding” online activities.
- Create online accounts and adjust privacy settings/parental controls only with parent/guardian permission.
- Share physical location with parent/guardian permission, and keep location services active only for direct family.
- Care for and maintain phones and devices, keeping them charged.
- School, homework, extracurricular activities and family relationships come before device use.
- Implement family agreements:
- Review our “Family Contract for Smartphones & Digital Devices” and share it with your child’s grandparents and relatives.
- Teach your child from an early age that technology is a tool, not a toy, and is a privilege, not a right.
- Demonstrate responsible technology use through a collaborative effort - both the child and the parent must demonstrate self-discipline and lead by example.
- Establish the consequences in advance for failure to abide by the family agreement.
"Tools" A Parent’s Defensive Strategy ("Technical Measures")
Parental controls should be utilized on all internet-enabled devices and platforms including desktops, laptops, gaming consoles, mobile phones, music devices and related apps. Most operating systems - such as Windows (Microsoft accounts), macOS (Apple ID), Chrome OS (Chromebook accounts), and Android (Google accounts) - offer built-in parental controls, as do app stores and some routers.
Remember, technology tools are not a substitute for parental supervision as determined kids can usually find a work-around.
- Set age-appropriate filters, time limits and utilize monitoring software by using a password only known by the parent.
- Ensure privacy settings are enabled on social media, gaming, and mobile devices. Limit online communications to parent-approved friends and platforms, especially for kids K-8.
- Regularly check browser history.
- Restrict chat room access; limit live audio and video chat for younger children. Only allow live audio chat features with extreme caution and only with approved contacts
- Keep cybersecurity software up to date on all devices.
Respond:
Report a Cybercrime: Get Help Now
If you believe your child is at immediate risk to online abuse or abduction, contact your local law enforcement immediately.
Cyber TipLine
TO REPORT CHILD PORNOGRAPHY, OBSCENITY, OR TO REPORT A CYBERCRIME: www.cybertipline.com Or call: 1-800-THE-LOST (provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children). The congressionally mandated CyberTipline is a reporting mechanism for cases of child sexual exploitation including child pornography, online enticement of children for sex acts, molestation of children outside the family, sex tourism of children, child victims of prostitution, and unsolicited obscene material sent to a child. Reports may be made 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline
Call 1-888-373-7888 | Text BeFree (233733) – The National Human Trafficking Hotline is a national, toll-free hotline, available to answer calls, texts, and live chats from anywhere in the United States, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in more than 200 language
Victims of Sextortion
Sextortion is a crime, and law enforcement can help investigate and protect the victim. The FBI encourages victims to report sextortion online at: https://www.ic3.gov.
From the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:
If you or a friend have experienced sextortion, there are some steps you can take now to make things better.
- Remember, the blackmailer is to blame, not you. Even if you made a choice you regret, what they are doing is a crime.
- Get help before deciding whether to pay money or otherwise comply with the blackmailer. Cooperating or paying rarely stops the blackmail. REPORT the account via the platform’s safety feature.
- BLOCK the suspect but DO NOT DELETE your profile or messages because that can be helpful in stopping the blackmailer.
- Let NCMEC help get images of you down. Visit MissingKids.org/IsYourExplicitContentOutThere to learn how to notify companies yourself or visit cybertipline.org to report to us for help with the process.
- Visit Take It Down so NCMEC can help you get your explicit images removed from the internet. Having nudes online is scary, but there is hope to get them taken down.
