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Family readiness

New device.Shared plan.

A short talk before the first download makes a new device safer and easier for everyone. Everyone knows what's private, what's allowed and who helps.

  • 2-minute lesson
  • Free · no sign-in
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  1. 1Why it matters

    Begin with a conversation, not a test

    Ask your child which apps, games and school tools they use and what makes them feel safe or uncomfortable. Agree that they can ask for help after a mistake without the first response being blame. Explain how to reach a trusted adult when a stranger, classmate or impersonated friend requests money, passwords, codes or private images. Choose examples appropriate for the child's age.

    Review one setting together

    Choose a non-school account and review its privacy, location sharing, recovery and connected-app settings with the account holder. Talk about what should be visible to strangers. Ask the school where to report a lost device, account problem or suspected disclosure. Repeat the conversation at school-year transitions as devices, responsibilities and online interests change.

  2. 2Do this

    • Start with the device

      Install updates. On a school-managed device, follow school instructions instead of changing its settings.

    • Protect the accounts

      Use unique passwords and a password manager. Turn on account protections; never share sign-in codes.

    • Choose boundaries together

      Review who can contact your child, privacy and sharing settings, and which apps fit their age. Revisit as needs change.

    • Practice the help plan

      Pick trusted adults and a school contact. Practice saying: “I'm not sure about this. Can you help me check?”

    Set up together
    • Updates on
    • Unique passwords
    • Who can contact me?
    • Help plan ready

    Something went wrong? Listen calmly first. A child who expects help, not blame, is more likely to come back and ask next time.

  3. 3Quick check

    What makes it easier for a child to ask for help after a mistake?
    Who can help when a message makes you uncomfortable?

    Choose an answer for each question.

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Full course: A family conversation about accounts, privacy and asking for help · 10 min

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