Teaching Kids to Navigate the Digital World: Why Families Need a Smartphone Safety Plan

With recent studies showing that teens spend an average of 7.5 hours a day on devices—and that more than 70% of sextortion victims in Canada are aged 12 to 17—it’s never been more critical for parents to understand the risks their kids face online. While smartphones help children stay connected and entertained, they can also expose them to harmful content, digital addiction, and online predators. The reality is, many families know these risks exist but often feel overwhelmed when it comes to starting the conversation.

As a former prosecutor, children’s advocate, and mother of two daughters, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly digital danger can enter a child’s life. That’s what led me to create The Family Smartphone Guide, a step-by-step tool designed to help parents and kids build healthy screen habits, identify red flags, and communicate openly about what’s happening on their screens.

For parents who feel like they’ve already lost control of their child’s digital world, the good news is this, it’s never too late to step in. If you discovered new information about a safety risk—like faulty brakes on your child’s bike—you wouldn’t hesitate to make changes. We need to apply that same thinking to smartphone use. With the rise of deepfake technology and AI-generated scams, it’s important to regularly reassess boundaries and make adjustments that prioritize your child’s wellbeing.

Start by watching for warning signs. If your child quickly switches screens when you walk in the room, shows mood swings after being online, or starts receiving messages from unfamiliar contacts, it’s time to check in. Other red flags include unexplained in-app purchases, excessive late-night screen time, or secrecy around their online interactions. These signs don’t always mean something is wrong, but they can indicate that a conversation is needed.

Creating a Family Tech Agreement is one way to set expectations and open dialogue. Just as we wouldn’t let teens drive without reviewing the rules of the road, we shouldn’t hand them smartphones without clear guidelines. Collaborate with your child to set boundaries around when and where phones can be used—such as no phones in bedrooms, during meals, or after a certain hour. The key is to build a sense of shared responsibility, not to impose restrictions without explanation.

Teaching your child to “pause before they post” is another essential lesson. Encourage them to think about how a message or image might be received by others and to consider whether they’d be comfortable having it displayed on a public billboard. A mindful digital footprint is one that reflects their best self.

It’s also wise to prepare for newer threats, like AI-generated impersonations. Establish a family “safe word” that only trusted members know, and teach your child to ask for it if they receive unusual calls or messages—even if it sounds like someone familiar. Remind them that even video or voice alone can no longer be trusted without verification.

If you can, delay smartphones!

If you haven’t yet introduced a smartphone into your home, consider delaying it. A basic flip phone or restricted-use device can provide emergency communication without the risks associated with social media or internet browsing.  

In his recent book, The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt advocates for waiting until 14 years of age to give your child a smartphone and 16 for social media. Delaying by a few years can protect kids’ mental health, support emotional development, and reduce exposure to online exploitation. There is an incredible organization called Unplugged Canada, https://unpluggedcanada.com , that is helping parents unite together to delay smartphones as long as possible. It is going to take a collective action to shift the culture and this is a great place to find like minded parents. 

Above all, children need to see their parents model the habits they’re being asked to follow. Put your phone away during dinner, schedule screen-free family time, and prioritize real-life connection. Encourage activities that spark creativity and curiosity—like sports, reading, art, or volunteering—and help your child discover what brings them joy offline.

Smartphones are here to stay, but that doesn’t mean we hand them over without preparation. By building a family safety plan, having ongoing conversations, and leading by example, we can help our children develop a strong sense of responsibility and confidence in navigating the digital world.

For more tools, resources, and support, visit www.raadd.ca.

About the Author

Margot Denommé is a former prosecutor and the founder of RAADD (Raising Awareness About Digital Dangers), a movement dedicated to educating families about the mental, physical, and legal risks of smartphone use. She is the author of The Family Smartphone Guide, a practical resource that helps parents and kids build healthy digital habits, set boundaries, and stay safe online. Through her advocacy and education work, Margot empowers families to navigate the digital world with confidence and connection.