Better Internet for Kids

This informative leaflet explains how social media algorithms personalise users feed based on browsing history, reactions, and behaviour, filtering out alternative viewpoints. This creates an “information bubble” that narrows perspective, reduces critical thinking, and increases susceptibility to manipulation and misinformation.

To mitigate the bubble effect, the guide recommends:

Digizens is a magazine written by the Youth Panel of the Greek Safer Internet Centre, giving voice to young people's concerns, reflections, and ideas in a digital era that strongly shapes everyday life. The 5th issue explores how the digital world affects youth, with topics such as the impact of social media on mental health, online anonymity, digital detox, and the role of artificial intelligence. It invites young readers to reflect on how to make the most of the digital world while maintaining balance and safety.

This interactive quiz is designed to assess and reinforce students’ knowledge about safe and responsible internet use. It serves as both a formative assessment tool and a conversation starter on topics related to digital citizenship.Through multiple-choice and scenario-based questions, it covers essential topics such as password security, social media safety, cyberbullying, and digital footprints.

Research shows that children and young people that spend a lot of time on social media are more often dissatisfied with their bodies than others. Comparisons and exposure to unrealistic body ideals is one part of it, and algorithms and “rabbit holes” is another. In this podcast episode of the Swedish podcast “Ätstörningspodden” (The eating disorder podcast) these issues, and how adults can help children navigate in this, are examined with an analyst from The Swedish Agency for the Media.

The issue of beauty ideals online and their impact on children and young people is complex. Research shows that exposure to beauty and body ideals on social media can lead to a poorer body image—to varying degrees. Research also shows that children (age 10-18) that spend a lot of time on social media tend to be more unhappy with their bodies and suffer from eating disorders to a greater extent than others in their age. In this short parental guide you can read more about the risks and get seven tips on how to talk to your child and give support. 

The Prepare / Protect / Thrive Presentation explores the role of influencers and algorithms in the lives of young people.

The Prepare / Protect / Thrive Presentation for 5th and 6th class primary pupils explores the role of influencers and algorithms in the lives of children aged 11 - 13 years old.

The educational material "Your Rights Online" deals with children's rights on the internet and is aimed at school librarians and school counselors, as well as children and young people (age 10-16). The material can be linked to the Swedish curriculum and therefore also be used by, or together with teachers. The material contains: the Convention on the Rights of the Child, GDPR, algorithms, and information on where to find help and support.