Better Internet for Kids

The report Childrens and Young People’s Influencers – A Focus Group Study presents the second and final part of a research project conducted by the Swedish agency for the Media within the framework of Safer Internet Centre Sweden. It is based on focus groups with children and young people, providing insights into their perspectives and experiences with influencers and influencer culture.

Research presents multiple definitions of influencers, with no single, unified description. This report identifies six definitions used in research and investigations. Children and young people follow influencers based on their popularity and content, and they may also act as influencers themselves or be influenced in various ways, including by parents who act as influencers.

The parental guide Is My Child Influenced by Influencers? helps carers understand how children and young people are affected by influencers and what research says about their relationship with social media. This guide is specifically designed for parents and carers and provides a concise summary of current research. It also offers practical advice on what parents should know to support their children in today’s media landscape.

Every year, on the second Tuesday of February, we celebrate Safer Internet Day, which falls on February 11th this year. You can join the celebrations by participating in the challenge "Together for a Better Internet" and making use of the newly released handbook. This handbook offers a wide range of tips and activities tailored to different age groups—from young children in kindergartens to seniors. It is designed for both organizations and individuals. The coordination of Safer Internet Day in the Czech Republic is managed by the national Safer Internet Center.

The study ‘Sexual Harassment Online’ clearly shows that sexual harassment on the internet is a sad part of everyday life for many children and young people in Austria. The infographic shows the key findings of the study, which was conducted in October 2024. 405 young people between the ages of 11 and 17 took part in the online survey. In addition, 70 young people from four school classes aged between 13 and 19 were interviewed in focus groups. Interviews with experts from counselling centres and academia rounded off the study.

Just as in the real world, young people will sooner or later encounter the topic of sexuality on the internet. It is important for parents to be aware of both the positive and potentially dangerous aspects of sexuality online and to talk to their children about it. This brochure is designed to help educate children about sexting, sextortion and cyber grooming, to make them aware of the dangers and to teach them how to stay safe and confident online.

The sexting poster informs young people about what to consider when sending intimate pictures and videos. It clarifies legal aspects, provides contact points for those affected and promotes a responsible approach to the issue through prevention and education.

The internet and social media offer ideal platforms for anti-democratic ideas. Right-wing extremists make targeted use of the internet to reach young users and win them over.

Educators play a crucial role in teaching children and adolescents how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. To support teachers, social workers, and other professionals working with young people, a set of three comprehensive toolkits has been developed, each tailored to different age groups and educational levels. These resources provide practical tools, insights, and workshop materials to facilitate discussions on digital safety, privacy, and online risks. 

The CyberSafety Youth Panel of Cyprus created a video to promote the safe and creative use of the internet among young people. Members of the panel wrote the script, performed in, and directed the video. This resource can be used by teachers and social workers in various ways. 

For example, it can help initiate discussions on cyberbullying, body image, internet overuse, and digital well-being. It can also encourage young people to engage with their community by creating their own cyber safety-related content.