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My Kid Saw What?! A Parent's Quick Guide to Handling Inappropriate and Adult Content Online


Let's talk about a scenario that can send any parent’s heart racing: your kid or teen stumbling upon something they shouldn't online. It's a situation none of us want to face, but in today's digital world, its not a question of “if” its going to happen but “when,” and it's essential to be prepared. So, what should you do if your kid or even teen one comes across inappropriate or adult content online?





1. Stay Calm: First things first, take a deep breath. It's completely natural to feel shocked or upset, but staying calm will help you handle the situation more effectively.

2. Assess the Situation: Ask your child what they saw and how they came across it. Understanding the context can help you determine the best course of action.

3. Provide Reassurance: Let your child know that they're not in trouble and that it's okay to come to you with anything they see online that makes them uncomfortable.

4. Limit Exposure: If possible, minimize your child's exposure to the content by closing the browser window or turning off the device.

5. Use Parental Controls: Consider implementing parental controls on your devices and internet browsers to prevent your child from accessing inappropriate content in the future.

6. Have a Discussion: Take this opportunity to have an open and age-appropriate conversation about internet safety with your child. Discuss why some content is not suitable for them and how to handle similar situations in the future.

7. Report the Content: Depending on the nature of the content, consider reporting it to the website or platform where it was found. Most social media platforms and websites have mechanisms in place for reporting inappropriate content.

8. Seek Support: If you're unsure how to handle the situation or if your child is particularly upset by what they saw, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional for support and guidance.

9. Monitor and Follow Up: Keep an eye on your child's online activity in the days following the incident. Check in with them regularly to see how they're feeling and if they have any lingering questions or concerns.

10. Educate and Empower: Use this experience as an opportunity to reinforce internet safety practices with your child. Teach them how to navigate the online world responsibly and empower them to make smart choices online.



Remember, we are all first-time internet parents - meaning the first group of parents to raise kids that have been exposed to the internet since birth. Give yourself grace - we are all figuring it out! As a parent we're here to guide and support our children through life's ups and downs, including navigating the digital landscape. By staying informed, fostering open communication, removing judgement, and taking proactive steps to keep our kids safe online, we can help them develop the skills and resilience they need to thrive in the digital age.
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