Talking With Kids About Online Content: Finding the Middle Ground

Today’s parents and caregivers face challenges that previous generations did not. Youth and teens are surrounded by an endless flow of information, immersed in technology that changes rapidly, and exposed to content that isn’t always healthy. From podcasts to TikTok clips to group chats, youth and teens are exposed to ideas and debates that can shape their views, for better or worse. The question is, “how do we guide them through it without shutting down dialogue or creating secrecy?”

It’s natural to be concerned when your child is listening to or watching something that feels extreme. Maybe it’s a podcast episode, a social media trend, or a video that pushes a certain worldview, be it left leaning or right leaning. The instinct might be to say, “That’s garbage, stop watching it.” But when kids consume only one perspective, whether it’s something you agree with or not, they miss the chance to build critical thinking skills.

Healthy growth happens when youth and teens are exposed to multiple moderated viewpoints. For example, while one podcast might challenge ideas about diversity and inclusion, another could bring forward completely different concerns. Listening across the spectrum helps youth and teens see that few issues are black and white.

This does not mean ignoring real risks. Radical groups and hate-based content are increasingly packaged in ways that look mainstream and are pushed to youth and teens online. Parents and caregivers should keep an eye out for warning signs, like sudden changes in language (“Climate change isn’t real,” “The media lies about everything”) or kids repeating extreme views without context. Instead of reacting with alarm, ask where they heard it. If the answer is “at school,” that’s one conversation. If it’s “a podcast” or “a video on TikTok,” that’s a chance to explore the source together.

Some parents try to solve this problem with strict digital overwatch, checking every message, video, or podcast. However, the truth is, youth and teens will always find ways around controls, something we will discuss in our next article. Oversight without trust can backfire, pushing them to hide what they’re seeing. Instead, focus on open conversations about themes and trends, not just the content itself. For example here are some questions to start a conversation:

• “What did you think of what they said about climate change?”

• “Why do you think some people don’t agree?”

• “What are your thoughts on phones bans at your school”

These discussions show kids that you value their thoughts, while teaching them how to evaluate information critically.

Unlike television, where you could simply block a channel, the internet does not have those easy boundaries. Youth and teens will encounter ideas that may clash with your family values, but that does not have to be a bad thing. By modelling calm, curious dialogue, you help them build resilience. Talk about politics, social issues, and current events at the dinner table or while in a car driving them too and from school. Let them share what they have heard, even if it makes you uncomfortable.

When kids feel safe bringing you these conversations, you gain insight into what they are consuming and how it’s shaping them. More importantly, you give them the critical thinking tools needed to navigate a noisy onlife world with thoughtfulness and balance.

Digital Food For Thought

The White Hatter

Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech