A quick game of cards on the bus, quickly mowing the lawn at the supermarket checkout, jumping on trains while waiting for your meal in the restaurant or puzzling out words together on the sofa in the evening. This is how casual games work – simple digital games. They range from small mobile games like Candy Crush to big console titles like Mario Party. What they all have in common is that they are easily accessible, entertaining and often particularly beginner-friendly. They are simple, fast and always accessible. But they are not completely problem-free.

What are casual games?

The term “casual games” means occasional games. Their most important characteristics are

• They are often available free of charge and can usually be used on smartphones, PCs and consoles.
• They have simple game principles that can be understood and implemented immediately.
• They can be played in small bites at any time.
• They usually work with rewards, leaderboards and flashy visuals to motivate users to keep playing.

Well-known examples include Candy Crush, Quizduell, Subway Surfer and Mahjong. But also Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing also count as casual games due to their relaxed gameplay and broad target group. These games are now so popular that more than half of people in Germany play them at least occasionally. In 2023, 5.1 billion euros in sales were generated across Germany with these small games.

Casual gaming in the family

Casual games are also frequently found in families. Thanks to their simple design, they appeal to all family members and have fans in all age groups. Even family members who are not real gamers are often enthusiastic about the “little gaming experience in between”. In many casual games, players can connect with each other, play against each other or help each other. This creates a shared experience that brings the family together. But solo games such as Unpacking or A Little to the Left also invite you to think, organize and relax – without any time pressure or pressure to perform. Some games promote skills such as responsiveness, logical thinking or problem-solving and are therefore an entertaining and educational pastime for children and young people.

What should parents pay attention to?

Despite all the fun, as parents you should always keep an eye on the problematic aspects of so-called “handbag games” – and discuss these with your child:

• Age information: Discuss with your child which apps they are allowed to use on their own smartphone. Pay attention to the USK age rating and find out about suitable, age-appropriate offers. A look at the USK rating also reveals whether additional money can be spent in the game or whether a chat function is included. The NRW Game Guide reviews and describes games from an educational perspective. The ratings are a good basis for forming your own opinion – on Candy Crush, for example.
• Time: click, reward, again! Casual games are often packed with incentives, rewards and small challenges that tempt you to keep playing. Children in particular therefore find it difficult to stop in time and use the games to a healthy extent. Talk openly with your child about the use of these game apps. Agree a time budget together and use the settings options on the devices to help your child use them consciously.
• Costs: Even if many casual games can initially be downloaded free of charge, this does not mean that they really cost nothing. Many offers rely on in-game purchases. These microtransactions can be used to boost powers or acquire useful items for real money, for example. This can quickly add up and become expensive. Agree with your child how much money they can spend. If necessary, deactivate in-app purchases in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on the smartphone or alternatively use a voucher card for the app stores. Some casual games only have to be paid for once, but offer a complete and high-quality gaming experience without any in-app purchases or advertising.
• Data: Another issue is data protection: not all providers handle personal data with care. If your child provides information carelessly, it is often impossible to understand what it is being used for. Discuss with your child which data they are allowed to disclose and where.

Casual games can be a great way to pass the time while waiting for the bus – without any unwanted side effects.

Egal ob witzige Tierbilder mit Sprechblasen, verfremdete Pressefotos oder neu interpretierte Szenen aus Filmen und Serien – Memes sind heutzutage überall im Internet zu finden. Memes werden durch das Teilen in sozialen Netzwerken schnell sehr bekannt und sind auch bei Kindern und Jugendlichen beliebt. Sie spiegeln Humor und Gruppenzugehörigkeit wider, können aber auch problematische Inhalte transportieren und verbreiten.

Was sind Memes?

Ein Bild, ein Video oder ein Filmausschnitt wird dann zum Meme, wenn es aus seinem ursprünglichen Kontext gerissen und mit einem neuen, oft humorvollen Text versehen wird. Besonders lustig sind Memes, wenn man das Original kennt – denn der Witz entsteht meist aus der überraschenden Kombination von Bekanntem und Neuem. Der Text ist dabei häufig ironisch gemeint.

Hinter Memes steckt oft eine kreative Idee, die immer wieder neu interpretiert wird und sich stetig weiterentwickelt. Memes werden auch genutzt, um Gefühle zu zeigen oder auf aktuelle politische und gesellschaftliche Themen aufmerksam zu machen. Berühmte Persönlichkeiten wie Goethe oder Napoleon oder Figuren aus Filmen und Comics bekommen neue, zeitgemäße Aussagen in den Mund gelegt. So wird aktueller Bezug zur heutigen Wirklichkeit hergestellt.

Das Besondere an Memes ist, dass dieselben Bilder immer wieder verwendet und mit einem neuen Text versehen werden. Ein bekanntes Beispiel ist „Hide the Pain Harold“ (Deutsch: „Verbirg den Schmerz, Harold“), das diesem Artikel als Beitragsbild dient. Dieses Meme zeigt den Ungarn Arató András mit einem gequälten Lächeln und wurde zu einem der bekanntesten Reaktionsbilder im Internet.

Es gibt verschiedene Meme-Formate: Ein klassisches Beispiel ist ein Bild mit einem witzigen Spruch in großer, weißer Schrift. Andere Memes bestehen aus Screenshots von Chats, Comic-Zeichnungen oder kurzen Videoclips. Viele Memes folgen bestimmten Vorlagen oder Trends. Wer sich in der Meme-Welt auskennt, erkennt diese Muster sofort.

Was Kinder und Jugendliche an Memes fasziniert

Für viele Jugendliche sind Memes weit mehr als bloße Unterhaltung – sie gehören fest zu ihrer (digitalen) Sprache. Mit Memes können sie Stimmungen, Gedanken oder Meinungen ausdrücken. Durch Ironie und Übertreibung lassen sich auch schwierige oder unangenehme Themen leichter ansprechen. Wer aktuelle Memes kennt oder selbst gestaltet, zeigt Zugehörigkeit zur eigenen Peer-Group.

Zudem fördern sie die Kreativität: Jugendliche probieren sich aus in Bildbearbeitung, Sprache und der Verbindung zu Trends in Social Media und Popkultur. Da Memes schnell erstellt und geteilt werden können, bieten sie eine einfache Möglichkeit, sich humorvoll und individuell mitzuteilen. Die visuelle Kommunikation ist ihnen ohnehin vertraut – Emojis, GIFs und Bilder ersetzen oft ganze Texte. Und da Kinder und Jugendliche gerne lachen und scherzen, treffen Memes genau ihre Vorlieben und verbreiten sich entsprechend schnell. Memes sind so beliebt, dass sie auch in der Offline-Welt präsent sind – zum Beispiel als Party-Kartenspiele oder Pausenhofgespräche.

Wenn Memes missbraucht werden

Auch wenn viele Memes harmlos oder lustig wirken, können sie problematische Inhalte transportieren. Manche Memes enthalten diskriminierende, rassistische oder sexistische Aussagen, machen sich über Minderheiten lustig oder verbreiten Verschwörungstheorien und politische Propaganda. Extremistische Gruppen nutzen Memes, um ihre Ideologien zu verbreiten – gerade bei Jugendlichen, die oft nicht hinterfragen, welche Botschaft dahintersteckt.

Oft werden sie anonym erstellt und rasant weiterverbreitet – ohne Rücksicht auf Urheberrechte oder die abgebildeten Personen. Besonders kritisch wird es, wenn Menschen durch Memes bloßgestellt oder herabgewürdigt werden, etwa wegen eines sichtbaren Handicaps. Wenn sich solche Inhalte stark verbreiten, kann das für die betroffenen Personen große negative Folgen haben.

Was sollten Eltern beachten?

Sie müssen kein*e Meme-Expert*in sein, um Ihr Kind gut zu begleiten – ein grundlegendes Verständnis reicht aus, um im Gespräch zu bleiben. Zeigen Sie Interesse an der Mediennutzung Ihres Kindes. Fragen Sie ruhig nach: Welches Meme ist gerade angesagt? So entsteht ein offener Austausch – auch über problematische oder verletzende Inhalte.

Sprechen Sie mit Ihrem Kind über einen respektvollen Umgang miteinander im Netz, die Grenzen von Humor und mögliche Diskriminierung. Unterstützen Sie es dabei, Inhalte kritisch zu hinterfragen: Wer steckt hinter einem Meme? Welche Botschaft wird vermittelt? Welche Wirkung kann es auf andere haben? Gehen Sie dabei mit gutem Beispiel voran: reflektieren Sie Ihre eigene Online-Kommunikation kritisch und sprechen Sie mit gemeinsam mit Ihrem Kind über Ihre Erfahrungen.

Auch Menschen, die sich für eine wertschätzende Kommunikationskultur im Netz engagieren, nutzen Memes, um Hass und Extremismus etwas entgegenzusetzen – eine Sammlung solcher Memes finden Sie zum Beispiel auf dem Instagram-Profil von Gustaver der Liebe.

Wenn Sie und Ihr Kind gern Memes anschauen oder teilen, werfen Sie gemeinsam einen kritischen Blick auf die Inhalte. Oder gestalten Sie selbst kreative und lustige Memes, zum Beispiel mit dem Online-Tool Meme Generator von imgflip.com oder der App Mematic. Das macht Spaß und fördert die Medienkompetenz.

Imgflip

My first smartphone – how to get your child off to a safe and relaxed start

Your child will soon be holding their first smartphone in their hands – and with it many new possibilities, but also challenges. In the virtual parents’ evening, you will receive everyday tips on safe settings, protecting personal data and child-friendly apps. We will provide tips on media education and show you how you can empower your child to deal competently with contact risks, cost traps and the like. Find out how to help your child use digital media responsibly – for safe and positive smartphone use right from the start!

Take the opportunity to be there live and ask your questions to our experts – we will be on hand to exchange ideas and provide valuable inspiration for everyday family life!

Information and registration

Date: 19.05.2025 | Time: 5 to 6 pm

Speakers: Sophie Pohle (Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk) and Sophia Mellitzer (JFF – Institute for Media Education in Research and Practice)

Moderation: Nils Rudolf (FSM e.V.)

Platform: The virtual parents’ evening is realized via the tool “Zoom”.

Privacy Notice: Zoom is a service of Zoom Video Communications Inc. which is based in the USA. We use Zoom via the German operator easymeet24. easymeet24 ‘s server is located in Europe. Furthermore, we have selected the configurations with the highest data and security protection within the Zoom service.
Please also take note of our privacy policy.

Registration:

False reports, “fake news”, alternative facts or conspiracy myths – you hear these terms again and again when it comes to news and information on the internet. But they don’t necessarily mean the same thing. We explain the differences between the terms – and what you should look out for as a parent.

Disinformation

Disinformation is content that is demonstrably false or misleading – and is spread deliberately. It often appears credible at first glance because it is packaged in a story, contains individual true facts or is presented in a highly emotionalized way.

The aim of disinformation is to unsettle people, influence certain opinions or create a targeted mood – for example against individual groups or political decisions. It is often also about economic interests, for example through advertising revenue on dubious websites. Disinformation becomes particularly problematic when it undermines trust in science, the media or democratic processes. It can therefore pose a serious threat to democracy.

Especially in times of crisis, such as during the coronavirus pandemic or in connection with the war against Ukraine, disinformation plays a major role.

“Fake news”

“Fake news” is a term that is often used in everyday life – usually as a synonym for disinformation. Literally translated, it means “fake news”.

However, the term is also deliberately used to denigrate critical reporting in serious media or to discredit political opponents.

It is therefore important to check carefully whether it really is a deliberately manipulated message – or whether the term is only being used to devalue another opinion.

Tip: When children or young people talk about “fake news”, ask what exactly they mean by this – and look at the source together.

A good introduction to the topic is the Inform” module from the Genial Digital material of the German Children’s Fund. Here, children learn in a playful way how to better assess and question information on the Internet.

Misinformation

False information is content that is not correct – but is passed on without intention. For example, because someone has misunderstood something or shared outdated information.

Mistakes can also occur in the media, for example in research or translation. In the past, this was sometimes called a “newspaper hoax”. It is important that such errors are corrected later.

Satire

Satire is an artistic form used to exaggerate social or political issues, for example in the heute-show, the Postillon or in memes.

Sometimes satire works with similar means as disinformation – such as exaggeration or simplification. However, it is not intended to deliberately deceive people.

The aim of satire is to criticize and make people think. Children and young people sometimes need help to classify satire correctly – talk about it together.

Propaganda

Propaganda means that information and messages are disseminated in a targeted manner in order to steer public opinion in a certain direction.

This can happen through language, images, music or even misinformation. Propaganda is often used in political conflicts – in the past on posters or on the radio, today also via social media and messenger services.

Conspiracy Myths

Conspiracy myths claim that secret groups or powers are behind major events. These stories offer simple explanations for complex relationships – without providing any scientific evidence or proof.

For example:

• The attacks of September 11, 2001 were “staged”.
• Vaccines would secretly contain dangerous substances.
• “The media” are controlled and “do not tell the truth”.

Such myths divide the world into “good” and “evil” – and often make certain groups responsible for everything. It becomes dangerous when they stir up hatred and mistrust or undermine faith in science and democracy.

These stories are not scientific theories, but are based on unsubstantiated claims. This is why experts deliberately refer to them as conspiracy myths or conspiracy narratives – and not as “conspiracy theories”.

TikTok is part of everyday life for many children and young people. They watch short videos, are entertained, get information or post content themselves. Many parents don’t know exactly what they are watching or posting there – and are worried. This makes it all the more important to know the app’s security settings – and to stay in touch.

What TikTok offers for parents

With the “Accompanied Mode” (also known as “Family Pairing”), TikTok offers the option of controlling certain functions of the app on the child’s account together. These include:

• Limit screen time: Set how long your child can use TikTok each day.
• Filter content: Determine which videos are displayed in the “For you” feed to ensure that only age-appropriate content is visible.
• Control messages: Decide who can communicate with your child via direct messages – or deactivate this function completely.
• Restrict notifications: Set the times at which TikTok sends notifications to minimize distractions during important times such as school hours or bedtime.
• Schedule breaks: Plan regular breaks or rest periods during which the use of the app is interrupted (e.g. during homework or at night).
• Usage overview: The so-called screen time dashboard gives you an insight into your child’s activities, including the accounts they follow, as well as blocked and blocking users.

Additional protective functions take effect automatically, depending on the age specified in the profile:

• Users under the age of 16 receive a reminder after 10 p.m. asking them to pause the app. If use is resumed, a second reminder will appear. In addition, a relaxation aid is offered that plays calming music.

• For the under-18s, beauty filters are deactivated in order to reduce the pressure of unrealistic ideals.
• For accounts of 13 to 15-year-olds, the profile is private by default – only confirmed contacts can see or comment on content.

To set up “Accompanied mode”

According to the terms of use, TikTok is permitted from the age of 13. Parental consent is required for children under the age of 16.

Tip: Children can also view TikTok in the browser without an account – so they can get started carefully without posting or commenting on content themselves.

Proceed as follows if you want to activate Accompanied mode:

1. Install the TikTok app on your child’s smartphone and your own.
2. Open the app on your device, go to the settings and select “Accompanied mode” or “Family pairing”.
3. Scan the displayed QR code with your child’s device to connect both accounts.
4. Make the desired settings together.

You can adjust these settings

• Daily screen time: Select 40, 60, 90 or 120 minutes – individually for each day. A code must be entered after expiry.
• Restricted mode: TikTok automatically filters content that is not age-appropriate. Terms or hashtags can also be blocked manually.
• Direct messages: Only friends are allowed to send messages – or you can deactivate the function completely.
• Rest periods: Reminders for breaks and a bedtime mode ensure app-free times (e.g. from 9 pm). An individual schedule can be created
• Notifications: Push notifications can be limited in time to create less distraction (e.g. at night or during school hours).

What else parents should consider

Make sure that your child gives the correct date of birth when registering. Only then will age-appropriate protective measures take effect. Check the data protection settings together and explain why a private account makes sense. Older teenagers should also consider whether they want to show their content publicly.

As a parent, you cannot directly track which videos your child is watching or who they are writing to. Messages or comments are not visible to you – so your child’s privacy is protected as far as possible. This makes mutual trust and the question: Can your child already use media consciously and safely?

Make sure you regularly discuss together whether the settings you have made are still suitable or should be adjusted. Don’t make decisions over your child’s head, but together with them. This will encourage understanding and personal responsibility. Also explain which aspects of the app you view critically and which rules apply to its use in your family.

Keep the conversation going: Ask what ‘s hot on TikTok at the moment, what your child is interested in or which influencers they find exciting. This way you stay close – and your child feels taken seriously.

Remember: TikTok collects data about usage behavior. Talk to your child about how personalized content, advertising and in-app purchases work – and consider together which data protection settings make sense.

You can find more information about TikTok here.

Children and young people are growing up in a digital world in which they come into contact with online media on a daily basis. Clear rules and effective protective measures are essential to enable them to use the internet safely. The German Association for Voluntary Self-Regulation of Digital Media Service Providers (FSM e.V.) plays a central role here. We explain how the FSM shapes youth media protection and why it is so important for parents.

Who is the FSM?

The FSM is a self-regulatory body recognized by the Commission for the Protection of Minors in the Media (KJM) in the area of youth media protection. It is committed to protecting children and young people from online content that is harmful to minors and supports digital media providers in the implementation of youth protection measures. It works closely with many other institutions in the field – in Germany and internationally.

Tasks of the FSM

The FSM pursues the goal of ensuring effective youth media protection in digital offerings. Its main tasks:

• Complaints office for problematic content: Users can use the FSM complaints office to report online content that is prohibited by law or harmful to minors. This includes, for example, violent, pornographic or extremist content. The FSM examines each complaint individually and takes action in the event of violations – either by cooperating with the providers concerned or by forwarding them to the authorities. The report can be submitted via an online complaint form on the FSM website.
• Self-regulation and age classification: As a recognized self-regulator under the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media (JMStV), the FSM supports companies in making their content suitable for young people. This includes, for example, the age rating of content, the development of technical youth protection solutions (e.g. youth protection programs such as JusProg) and advice on legal requirements. Digital platforms and media providers that join the FSM benefit from the opportunity to have their own protection measures tested and certified by the FSM.
• Media education and information: The FSM is committed to media education in order to inform parents, teachers and children about risks on the internet. It provides practical materials, organizes events and cooperates with initiatives such as klicksafe and fragFINN. One example is our Elternguide.online project, which offers special guides and tools for parents.

The FSM in the system of youth media protection

The FSM is part of the system of regulated self-regulation in Germany. It works closely with other self-regulatory bodies such as the USK (Entertainment Software Self-Regulation), the FSK (Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry) and the FSF (Voluntary Self-Regulation of Television). In this way, the self-regulatory bodies promote cooperation between companies, authorities and politicians for the effective protection of minors in the media.

Challenges in the digital protection of minors

The digital protection of minors is a dynamic field that constantly presents new challenges:

• New technologies: The FSM has to deal with developments such as artificial intelligence (e.g. deep fakes) or new online platforms. New media phenomena require new approaches to the protection of minors.
• Limits of self-regulation: The FSM reaches its limits when it comes to content on foreign servers. It works closely with international partners in the fight against online abuse.

Why is the FSM important for parents?

It is often difficult for parents to assess what content on the Internet is suitable for their children. The FSM offers support to ensure that youth media protection reaches families:

• Parental control programs: These help parents to restrict access to unsuitable content.
• Information services: Projects such as Elternguide.online offer practical and valuable tips on safe media use.
• Complaint options: Parents can report problematic content directly.

More information is available directly on the FSM website: www.fsm.de

Books and TikTok – how do they go together? Young people show that it can be done. TikTok has long been more than just a platform for dance videos: Many use it to find out about current trends – including popular books. There is also an active book community on YouTube and Instagram that discusses reading.

From bookfluencers and booktokers

Reading books seems to be losing importance in the age of social media. But the Booktok trend proves the opposite: digital and analog media are not mutually exclusive!

The term Booktok is made up of “Book” and “TikTok“. Under the hashtag #booktok, users share book tips in creative short videos – far removed from dry literature reviews. The content is entertaining and visually appealing, inspiring young people to read. Genres such as romance, fantasy, crime/thriller, young adult and dark romance are particularly popular.

Dark romance is a particularly popular genre in romance literature. The stories are often intense, dramatic and often deal with dark or taboo subjects. Parents should be vigilant: it is often about power imbalances, toxic dependencies or psychological manipulation in relationships. An open discussion helps young people to critically question problematic depictions.

Publishers and bookshops have also recognized the trend. They often present their own “BookTok” tables with the most popular titles in bookshops. Bestsellers are no longer created solely through classic reviews, but through viral TikTok trends.

Bookstagram and BookTube: Reading on Instagram and YouTube

In addition to TikTok, there is also the book community “Bookstagram” on Instagram. Here, readers share aesthetic images of their current reads, write reviews and organize reading rounds. Compared to TikTok, books are discussed more intensively here. Real book recommendations and new reading circles are created in the comments.

YouTube also has a fixed point of contact for bookworms with “BookTube”. There are detailed book reviews, reading months and so-called TBR (To Be Read) lists in which users present their planned reading.

Apps as reading motivation

Certain apps make reading more exciting – and sometimes even a challenge. They help you to track your own reading behavior and set reading goals. These include

• GoodReads: A worldwide platform for book reviews and recommendations.
• Read-O: Gamifies reading and rewards users for completing books.
• Bookstats: Provides detailed statistics about your own reading behavior.
• Booksup: Enables exchange with other readers in a social media environment.

Many of these apps offer the option of writing reviews and networking with others. Before using them, however, you should check the data protection guidelines to see what data is collected and passed on.

What parents should pay attention

Even though social media encourages reading, parents should keep a few things in mind:

• Advertising versus honest recommendations: Many influencers receive books free of charge or are paid to promote certain titles. Not all reviews are objective. Discuss with your child how they can tell the difference between advertising and genuine recommendations.
• Cost trap book purchases: Hype can quickly lead to spontaneous book purchases. Clarify with your child which books are really wanted and which can be borrowed.
• Data protection and privacy: Many reading apps and social media platforms collect personal data. Check the data protection settings together with your child and consider what information really needs to be disclosed. Children have a right to protection of their data!
• Dealing critically with content: Especially with genres such as dark romance, it is important to talk to young people about problematic relationship patterns and to develop a reflective view of the stories. Remain open and appreciative: ask your child, “What fascinates you about the story?” or “What do you think of the characters’ behavior?”. In this way, you encourage a reflective view, help to differentiate between fiction and reality and support your child in critically questioning problematic depictions – without curbing their passion for reading.

Look together with your child to see which books are really exciting. Libraries or digital services such as Onleihe offer many options – without having to buy expensive books.

Apps, remote-controlled cars, vending machines – in our increasingly digital world, programming skills are a valuable skill. Age-appropriate apps and programs introduce children to coding in a playful way and encourage creativity, logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Why is coding useful for children?

• Creativity and problem solving: Children learn to turn ideas into digital projects.
• Logical thinking: You understand how processes need to be structured.
• Safe handling: Programming skills help to better understand digital technologies and use them responsibly.

Our recommendations

ScratchScratch is an image-oriented, visual programming language and an online platform developed by the MIT Media Lab especially for children and young people aged 8 to 16. Children can use it to learn programming step by step in a fun way. With a simple drag-and-drop interface, they can create their own animations, games and interactive stories. The software is extremely appealing and gives your child the opportunity to create their own worlds. There is also a large online community where your child can share coding projects and be inspired by others. There is also an app version that can be used offline.

ScratchJrFor younger children (aged 5+) there is ScratchJr, which offers simple visual programming for first coding experiences. The app allows your child to create their own interactive stories and games by stringing together graphical program blocks to move characters and create actions such as jumping, dancing and singing. You can customize the characters and add your own voices and sounds. ScratchJr is easy to use and has a child-friendly design.

OctoStudioOctoStudio is an intuitive, block-based programming language that allows users to create interactive animations and games directly on their smartphone or tablet. The app was developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group of the MIT Media Lab and makes it possible to take photos and sounds and bring them to life with programming blocks. The use of device sensors is particularly noteworthy: projects can be controlled interactively by shaking, tilting or jumping. OctoStudio is ad-free, contains no in-app purchases and does not collect any user data. The app is available in more than 20 languages, including German, and can be downloaded free of charge from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

Programming with the mouseThis website is aimed at children aged 8 and over and teaches programming basics in a fun way, inspired by “Die Sendung mit der Maus”. The popular TV character from the show awakens an interest in coding and accompanies your child through the program. The web application uses Scratch as a basis, but does not allow you to publish your own projects. “Programming with the Mouse” focuses on entertaining games and activities to impart knowledge in an appealing way. The platform offers structured instructions that guide children step by step through the world of programming. Successfully solving tasks boosts children’s self-confidence and is fun. The website promotes creative learning and makes programming accessible to children.

Ronja’s robotRonja’s Robot is an app for iOS and Android, developed by the Kinder Forschen foundation. It introduces children aged 6 to 12 to programming and robotics in a playful way. The app consists of two clever games: “Roberta rast”, in which your child learns programming concepts, and “Speak like Roberta”, which teaches the computer language binary code (from 1 and 0). For more advanced children, the graphical programming language OPEN Roberta offers the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of programming. Creative thinking is encouraged and your child can come up with their own solutions to tricky challenges. Your child can earn badges and rewards in the game and create coding projects together with other children as a team.

Programming until it gets dark – what should parents bear in mind?

Your child may forget the time when programming. Set rules for screen time together with your child. Make sure your child socializes and spends time outdoors. There may also be occasional frustration when challenges arise. Support your child, encourage them – and learn something new yourself. There are also school and leisure activities where children can learn the programs. Use the fragFINN search engine for children to find offers in your area.

Squad Busters is a fast-paced multiplayer group action game in which ten players compete to grab and keep the most jewels. The game is a mix of other video games from Finnish game developer Supercell and features characters from Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, Brawl Stars, Hay Day and Boom Beach.

In brief

• Squad Busters is a battle royale online action game for mobile devices
• Age rating: released from 12 years(USK)
• The game can be downloaded free of charge
• Includes in-game purchases and chats
• Currently only released for Android and IOS

What is Squad Busters

Squad Busters is about leading a group of characters who compete together as a team. The aim is to collect as many gems as possible or eliminate other teams. Whoever has the most gems at the end of the round wins. Gems can be earned in various ways: For example, by defeating monsters, chopping down trees, searching through bushes, destroying crates or collecting coins. Each round is different because the rules of the game are determined randomly. This keeps the game varied and exciting.

What fascinates children/youth about it?

In Squad Busters, children and teenagers can expect simple but colorful 3D graphics. The game looks similar to other games from Supercell, such as Brawl Stars. Anyone familiar with these games will quickly find their way around. The gameplay is also reminiscent of earlier successful titles that are played by millions of people worldwide. What is particularly exciting for children is that they can find familiar characters from other games in Squad Busters and develop them further.

The game motivates you to spend a lot of time with it. Firstly, the game characters can be continuously improved and gradually upgraded. The aim is to reach the highest level of development – the so-called Ultra Evolution. With each evolution, the characters gain new abilities that make them stronger. This helps players to be more successful. Secondly, there are rewards in the form of chests with surprises after each round. Those who do particularly well receive more rewards and in-game currency. The currency can be used to unlock further improvements in the game.

What can be problematic about the offer?

In Squad Busters, players have the opportunity to play with friends and family as well as strangers and chat in group chats. This allows your child to get in touch with unknown people who may not be who they say they are. After random rounds of play, your child may receive friend requests from other players. This carries the risk of cyberbullying and cybergrooming.

Squad Busters offers a variety of in-game purchases that can tempt children to spend real money on additional content. These include a virtual currency to purchase various items or upgrades or to buy new characters or cosmetic skins for existing characters to customize the gaming experience. Players can also purchase special power-ups or boosts that give them advantages in the game. There are also battle passes that offer regular rewards or benefits in the game.

What does the provider think?

There is a guide for parents on the official website of the provider Supercell. For example, it points out existing in-app purchases in the game and explains how parents can manage them and switch them off if necessary. Supercell states that it does not pass on personal data to third parties for commercial purposes or in any other way. The provider has created a “blacklist” for safe chatting. This allows certain terms to be quickly and automatically removed from chats. Chat messages can be muted and are then no longer displayed.

What should parents pay attention to?

Supercell states that various data must be collected in order to play the game. You can find out exactly what data the provider accesses in the privacy policy. It is advisable to first explore the game together with your child. Play together to better understand your child’s enthusiasm for the game.

• Explain the in-app purchases to your child and discuss whether and to what extent they are allowed to use them.
• As the game can tempt them to spend a lot of time playing it, you should set clear rules: How much time is it allowed to play daily or weekly?
• Make adjustments to the mobile device settings together to limit in-app purchases or set a daily screen time limit
• If you are unsure whether your child’s gaming behavior is within normal limits, you will find further information and advice on the subject of excessive computer gaming in this article.
• Use the available settings in the game to prevent contact with strangers via the chat function, for example. Explain to your child that they should not disclose any personal information such as their name or place of residence.

Keep in touch with your child about the game and encourage them to contact you if they have any questions or problems.

Are you or your child looking for high-quality and child-friendly child-friendly online offers? Then Seitenstark just the right thing! The platform is a network of certified children’s sites that provide educationally valuable content. Your child can surf, discover and learn safely here.

In a nutshell:

• Network of over 60 children’s sites

• Children and parents or teachers can get information and inspiration

• High standards of quality and protection of children and young people from harmful media

What is Seitenstark?

Seitenstark.de is a children’s website that lists and presents a variety of child-friendly websites. The sites offer content on various topics. Whether nature and technology, music and film, art and culture or politics and religion – children will find lots of exciting content here and can learn new things in a fun way.

Many of the pages presented are linked to the site strength-seal of approval. The seal stands for high-quality, ad-free and safe internet services that are specially tailored to the needs of children. Sites with this seal offer trustworthy, verified content and protect the privacy of young users.

What fascinates children in particular?

On Seitenstark going digital is easy and fun. In the Link-Clips places Seitenstark The mascot Starky accompanies the children as they surf the Internet and provides them with other topics in addition to the children’s pages. The mascot Starky accompanies the children while surfing and presents other topics in addition to the children’s pages, such as Children’s rights. In the category Join in! children get exciting ideas and tips for creating media themselves. Those who Games you get access to child-friendly game collections and entertaining analog and digital game tips. Under the tab Fit on the Internet the character Charlie provides important information about safety on the Internet. Your child will learn more about the Internet in general, about Fake news and data protection and answers to frequently asked questions.

What does the provider say?

The Seitenstark e. V. association forms the organizational basis of the open Seitenstark-network. As a non-profit organization and recognized sponsor of independent youth welfare, the association is committed to high-quality and safe children’s media. Its members come from the fields of children’s media, media education and educational work. All information about the association, the seal of approval and tips on media education can be found in the Area for parents and teachers.

What should parents pay attention to?

When you gradually release your child more independently into the world of the Internet, he or she should already have learned a few rules and have safe places to go to find offers suitable for children. Therefore Seitenstark a great opportunity.

The website is divided into a children’s section and a section for parents and teachers. You can let your child surf alone in the children’s area with a clear conscience, which will give them self-confidence and help them develop their skills. Media competence promotes. However, you should always bear in mind that the discussed media usage times are adhered to and you remain in contact with your child.

Make use of Seitenstark as a contact point for discovering new topics together and imparting knowledge in a playful way. With Seitenstark children can use the Internet safely and sensibly – a great opportunity for you as parents to accompany your child in their digital learning. And you can also find out more yourself on the site.

“Just one more round!” or “Leon can watch TV much longer!” – Many parents are familiar with phrases like these. But how much media time is actually okay? Which media is suitable for my child? And at what age does it make sense for them to have their own smartphone? Fixed rules can help to find answers to these questions. However, they can also lead to conflicts. We have a few tips and background information on setting media rules in the family.

Why are rules important?

Rules are not there to enforce the will of parents, but to provide structure and guidance. They help to promote your child’s media skills and reduce the risk of problems caused by inappropriate use of media. As parents, you have the responsibility to combine the fun of media with a conscious approach. You are often better at assessing dangers than your child.

It is important that your child understands the rules and can follow them. It is best to develop the rules together with your child. This will make your child realize that their opinion counts and it will be easier for them to accept the rules. Explain to your child why certain rules are important and why they should be followed. If rules are not clearly formulated or are interpreted differently, your child will find it difficult to follow them. Another crucial point is that you as parents are role models – this means that you should follow the same rules yourself.

How should rules be designed?

Which rules make sense depends on the age of your child and on how you and your child generally deal with media. This is not the same in every family.

The younger your child is, the more you should keep an eye on his or her media use. Young children need close supervision and should not spend too much time with media. Choose age-appropriate content, limit the duration of use and decide on suitable devices. Even if your child is still small, you can explain to them why certain content or times are chosen. Depending on their stage of development, children of kindergarten age can also be involved in simple decisions. From elementary school age, your child gets many new impressions and influences. They still need a lot of guidance, which is why clear, jointly developed rules are very important. You can now better talk to your child about content and let him or her have a say. This way, your child feels taken seriously and learns to take responsibility. From secondary school and adolescence onwards, you should trust your child to be more independent and support them in using media in an increasingly self-determined and self-regulated way. Young people usually approach digital media openly, but they are often not yet able to properly assess the risks. That’s why you are still important as a guide and contact person!

The following applies to all age groups: media usage rules must be sensible and flexible.

Setting rules together

To help your child understand how to use media, it makes sense to draw up the rules together – for example in the form of a media usage contract. Such a contract makes the rules transparent and comprehensible for everyone. Exceptions can also be formulated. If your child can help shape the rules themselves, it will be easier for them to stick to them. Check regularly whether the rules still make sense or need to be adjusted if necessary.

Just as important as media-related rules are “media-free” rules – such as not using smartphones during a family meal or conversation. Such rules promote interpersonal communication and strengthen the family bond.

Media time and media-free time

A frequent topic is the question: How much media time is healthy? When is it too much? The answer depends very much on the age and individual needs of your child. The rule of thumb is: the younger, the less!

One approach to regulating media time in everyday life is the use of media vouchers. These can help children of primary school age and above to independently allocate a weekly budget of media time. This gives your child responsibility for their media use without you having to constantly intervene.

It is important that your child has a varied daily routine, uses media in different ways, but also has media-free experiences.

Media content and device selection

Not only the use of media, but also the choice of content should be part of the family rules. Make sure that media content is age-appropriate and corresponds to your child’s interests. In addition to television and apps, media consumption also includes radio plays, books and music. It makes sense to include these in the rules as well.

Take into account that the content of media use varies greatly, as do the motives and needs of use. A game for mere entertainment may be weighted differently than learning with media. Discuss qualitative differences with your child. Be sure to include age-appropriate content as well.

The question of the right age for the first smartphone concerns many parents. If necessary, talk to the parents of your child’s friends and consider whether certain rules can apply to everyone.

Security settings and technical support

Another important topic is the security settings for devices and apps. Many smartphones and tablets now offer the option of controlling access to certain content and limiting its use. These should always be discussed with your child. Settings such as screen time limits, age ratings and app filters can help to control media use.

However, these technical aids are no substitute for parental guidance. They should also not be used purely for control. Your child needs trust and the opportunity to gradually take responsibility for their own media use. Explanations from you and conversations about media make a significant contribution to your child learning how to use media competently.

Rules may vary depending on the child’s age and stage of development. On the one hand, stay consistent, otherwise they will not serve their purpose. At the same time, if possible, do not use the rules as a punishment or reward.

Instagram remains one of the most popular social media platforms, especially among young people. The app makes it possible to share photos and videos, create stories and interact with friends and influencers.

In a nutshell:

• Social network: Can be used free of charge after registering via the app
• Functions: Publish and view photos, short videos(reels), live streams and so-called stories
• Minimum age: According to the terms and conditions, the app is permitted from the age of 13
• Caution: contains a lot of advertising, children and young people may be confronted with unsuitable content
• Provider: Like Facebook, Instagram is a service of the US internet company Meta

What is Instagram?

Instagram, or Insta for short, is more than just a picture platform. Above your own feed (accessible in the app via the house icon), there are stories and live streams from users you follow. These disappear after 24 hours, but can be saved as a highlight by the person who posted the story. The feed also shows new photos and videos from subscribed channels and people.

Users can find a wide variety of content on Insta: Posts from stars, brands and challenges through to personal profiles of friends. They can react to them with likes and comments or save them for themselves.

You can edit your own posts with filters, emojis and fonts directly in the app. Content is sorted by topic using hashtags. Reels (short TikTok-style videos) can be accessed via the video icon.

At the end of 2023, Meta also launched the Threads social media app in Germany. This is linked to Instagram.

What fascinates children and young people about Instagram?

• Creative self-expression: young people can share their best moments and put themselves in the limelight.
• Idols and trends: You can follow influencers, stars and trends.
• Easy to use: Take, edit and share photos and videos quickly.
• Community feeling: Like and comment on content and interact with friends.
• Broadcast channels: Influencers and creators can share exclusive content that is only visible to invited members.

Since December 2024, young people up to the age of 16 have automatically been given so-called teen accounts with additional protective functions such as restricted contact options and stricter content filters: notifications are muted between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and automatic replies are sent to direct messages. After 60 minutes of use per day, teenagers receive a notification asking them to leave the app. Accounts of children and young people under the age of 18 are automatically set to private after creation. However, this can be changed in the settings afterwards and the profile can be set to public. All these default settings can only be adjusted or deactivated with the consent of the parents in the so-called parental supervision in the Family Center.

What can be problematic about the offer?

Data protection: Instagram’s privacy policy allows the sharing of user data with other services of the parent company Meta and with third parties. The app allows cross-posting. This means that a photo can also be shared on Facebook with one click. If you have an account there, you should check the settings carefully when publishing posts.

Location sharing: Instagram can determine the location of users via the posts they post. Private accounts prevent this. Access to the location can also be deactivated in the app and in the app permissions. This means that Instagram cannot view the location of public accounts either. However, a location can be added to each posted image manually afterwards.

Paid content: Paid content is created when children and young people not only follow an account, but also subscribe to it. The monthly price is set by the creators themselves and the subscription can usually be canceled on a monthly basis. Subscribers have access to exclusive content such as images, reels and stories. If you want to subscribe to an account, you will find the “Subscribe” button next to “Follow”/”Followed” and “Messages” on your profile. A single click on this does not yet lead to a subscription, which must be confirmed with further clicks.

Inappropriate content: Certain content can be problematic for young people, such as erotic images, dangerous challenges, disinformation or advertising. Influencer business models play a special role here, which young people do not always recognize.

Communication risks: Functions such as chats and comments harbor communication risks such as being contacted by strangers, hate speech or cyberbullying.

What does the provider think?

Despite the official minimum age of 13, there is no effective age check. Until your child is 18 years old, you must consent to its use. There are extensive usage and setting options. If your child is under the age of 13, they can use Instagram if you manage the account. This must be included in the profile description. At Handysektor you can read a short version of the terms of use and download a flyer with the most important safety information about Instagram for young people.

Parents can link their account to that of their child in the “Parental supervision”. We present all the setting options in this article. You can find out how Instagram wants to make the app safer for young people directly on the Instagram website.

What parents should pay attention

Consider together with your child at what age and according to what rules they are allowed to use Instagram. Check the app settings together so that your child can use Instagram as safely as possible. Not all photos must or may be shared with everyone or only with friends.

Talk to your child about communication risks. Show your child how they can block or report other users and explain to them when these functions are useful – for example, if someone insults your child in the comments. Your child should not accept requests from strangers and should use their own data, such as their location , sparingly.

Educate your child about risks such as harmful content, hate speech, disinformation and political opinion making. Also talk about critical behavior of influencers and stay in conversation with your child about one-sided role models and clichés. Stay interested and regularly ask who your child follows on Instagram and who follows them. It is important that your child knows that they can always talk to you if they have an unpleasant experience on the platform.

Disputes are part of child development. Children and young people learn how to deal with conflicts and find solutions. However, digital media can lead to arguments getting worse. Cyberbullying is affecting more and more children and young people. This makes it all the more important to raise your child’s awareness of respectful online behavior and to help them deal with online conflicts. In this article, we explain what you can do as a parent.

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying means that people are insulted, exposed or threatened online, for example via apps such as TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp or Instagram.

There are different roles: the victims, the active bullies, but also the silent bystanders and assistants who join in. Many children and young people take on several of these roles, sometimes without realizing it. Cyberbullying can take many forms:

• Insults or threats in messages or comments
• Exclusion from groups or chats
• Spreading rumors or private information
• Embarrassing photos or videos shared without consent
• Identity theft and fake profiles
• Use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake images or videos, so-called deepfakes

As digital content can be stored and redistributed, a single post can have long-term effects. Attackers can often hide behind their anonymity.

Why does cyberbullying occur?

There are many reasons why children and young people bully others:

• Boredom or the desire to make a name for yourself
• Peer pressure and the need to belong
• Revenge or the feeling of having to defend yourself
• Lack of awareness of the consequences
• The feeling of being braver online than in real life

New technologies such as deepfake software have exacerbated cyberbullying. Young people sometimes use them out of curiosity or to deliberately expose others.

The consequences of cyberbullying

Bullying has been around since before the invention of the internet. But whereas in the past a child could come home after school and switch off, today children and young people are constantly connected to each other. Conflicts from school continue in class chats or on social media platforms. This is why cyberbullying can have serious consequences. Children who are bullied online often feel helpless and abandoned. In the long term, it can lead to anxiety, sleep disorders, depressive moods or even suicidal thoughts. Statistics show that almost half of young people have already experienced cyberbullying. According to the JIM Study 2024, 11% of young people have experienced cyberbullying directly in the last month.

What can parents do?

When children and young people communicate with each other, there are always times when insults are used. This does not have to be bullying, but is often just a joke. They use it to test how far they can go. However, this limit is different for every child.

Parents can do a lot to ensure that their child communicates respectfully and is safer online:

• Have open conversations: Regularly ask what your child is doing on the Internet, who they are in contact with and what experiences they are having there.
• Encourage empathy: Explain to your child that insults are also hurtful on the Internet and that there are limits.
• Use safety functions: Use the parental control settings in devices and apps and explain to your child how they can block or report people.
• Set limits: Younger children in particular should only be allowed to communicate online with a limited number of people. Set up the smartphone more securely together with your child and adjust the settings to your child’s level of development.
• Take changes in behavior seriously: If your child withdraws, seems sad or tense, this may be a sign of cyberbullying.

Good prevention starts early. Parents should talk to their children about how to use the internet competently before they become active on social media. For primary school children, there are programs such as the learning offer Genial digital run by the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk, which teach media skills in a fun way. The cyberbullying first aid app from klicksafe helps young people to deal with conflicts online.

Schools can also help by setting clear rules against (online) bullying and providing information. Parents can, for example, encourage teachers to integrate digital learning modules or videos from the Wake Up Initiative, including those from the FSM, into lessons.

What should I do if my child is affected?

If your child is affected by cyberbullying, you should remain calm and make it clear to them that it is not their fault. You can then take the following steps together:

1. Preserve evidence: Take screenshots of the offending content (except for illegal content such as hardcore pornography).
2. Report bullying on the platform: Social media apps have reporting functions to remove offensive content. Complaints offices can also be contacted.
3. Talk to the school: If the bullying comes from classmates, the school can help.
4. Seek external help: Many counseling platforms such as Nummer gegen Kummer or Juuuport offer anonymous counseling for children, young people and parents.
5. Take legal action in an emergency: Threats, defamation or identity theft may be punishable by law. If necessary, a report can be made to the police. You can find help online, for example at the online police watchdogs and Hate Aid.

Cyberbullying is a serious challenge for children and young people. However, parents can do a lot to empower their children, educate them and stand by them when problems arise. Make use of the support services, stay in contact with your child and advocate for a safe and respectful online world.

Immerse yourself in game worlds, experience exciting adventures with your own avatar and compete with other players – many children and young people are fascinated by games. As a parent, you should give your child access to age-appropriate content. Online games in particular, with their opportunities for interaction and incentives to buy, present young players with challenges. But how do you keep track of the gaming market and find suitable games for your child?

Educational age recommendations, independent game reviews and media awards can help you make informed decisions and select suitable content together with your child. In this article, we present some of the options.

Spieleratgeber NRW – the portal for computer games

The NRW games guide is a media education service from the Fachstelle für Jugendmedienkultur NRW, which supports parents with media education. The platform offers extensive information on over 2000 games. The games are tested by young people and given an educational age recommendation by experts. Parents can use filter functions to find suitable games for their children by genre, platform and age. The game descriptions and video clips provide insights into the content, risks and opportunities of the games and use additional descriptions to highlight the characteristics and skills that the game promotes (e.g. reading skills, frustration tolerance and logic).

More info: https://www.elternguide.online/spieleratgeber-nrw/

Internet-abc.de – Games tips for children

Whether for computer, tablet, smartphone or console – internet-abc.de offers a collection of over 1000 games for children up to the age of 12. The Internet ABC experts award points for fun, operation and technical quality and make an age assessment. Children and parents can use the search mask to filter the games by game type, game device and age group. Each recommendation offers facts and pictures about the game as well as a summary of the content. Children can rate the games with stars and leave comments.

More info: https://www.internet-abc.de/kinder/spiel-spass/spieletipps/

Educational media prize – educationally valuable apps and games

Anyone looking for high-quality and child-friendly digital content will find what they are looking for at the Educational Media Prize of the media education association SIN – Studio im Netz. Every year, a jury of children, young people and experts awards prizes to digital media offerings such as apps, games and websites that are particularly recommended for young people. The award-winning digital offerings are free of problematic content such as excessive violence. The focus is on media that not only entertain, but also convey educationally valuable content.

More info: https://www.paedagogischer-medienpreis.de

Educational games – Learning with games

The website of the Digital Games Culture Foundation offers parents a collection of recommended games. The selection includes both serious games that specifically impart knowledge and commercial entertainment games with educational added value. The collection also includes programs that encourage children and young people to get creative and develop their own games. The offers can be filtered according to age groups, platforms and topics. For each game there is an educational classification according to time required, complexity, game content, opportunities and possible risks.

More info: https://www.stiftung-digitale-spielekultur.de/paedagogische-spiele/

TOMMI – Children’s Software Award

Every year, the TOMMI Children’s Software Award recognizes particularly recommendable digital games and educational products for children. First, an expert jury reviews the nominated media products. Children’s juries then test and evaluate the games, apps and programs in 50 libraries in German-speaking countries. The TOMMI is published by the FEIBEL.DE office for children’s media in Berlin. Parents benefit from the independent assessments, as the award highlights games that are suitable for children and offer both fun and educational added value. The award ceremony takes place every year in the Timster program on KiKa program.

More info: https://tommi.kids/kindersoftwarepreis/

Gaming without limits – recommendations for accessible games

The Gaming without Borders project tests digital games for accessibility and supports game developers in designing inclusive games. Young people with and without disabilities test the games and rate them in the categories of seeing, hearing, understanding and controlling. The service shows how digital games can be made accessible for everyone. The ComputerProjekt Köln e.V. is the specialist center for youth media culture in NRW. Parents can find valuable information here on how to select accessible games for their children in order to give them an unrestricted gaming experience.

More info: https://www.gaming-ohne-grenzen.de/

What parents should pay attention

Beware of the risk of confusion! Distinguish between educational recommendations and age ratings in accordance with the German Youth Protection Act. Age ratings such as those issued by the Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body(USK) are intended to protect children and young people from developmentally harmful content and interaction risks. They are not a recommendation and can say little about whether your child can handle the content well.

Educational recommendations assess whether a game is understandable, interesting and development-promoting for a certain age group in terms of content and emotion. They show how a medium can accompany, support or positively stimulate children and young people in their development.

Every child develops differently. Therefore, don’t just rely on recommendations, but actively accompany your child in their media use right from the start. Observe your child to understand how they react to different content. It is best to play together with your child or try out the game yourself beforehand. You can find more information on the topic of games in the family, for example which media rules are important, in this parents’ guide article: https://www.elternguide.online/games-games-games/

The annual Safer Internet Day, which is coordinated in Germany by the EU initiative klicksafe, will take place on February 11, 2025. Under the motto “No likes for lies! Recognize extremism, populism and deepfakes online”, children and young people are to be encouraged to deal critically with online content. On Elternguide.online we answer the most important questions on this topic.

What is disinformation?

Disinformation refers to the deliberate dissemination of false or misleading information with the aim of deceiving or manipulating people. The aim is to deliberately create a certain opinion or mood, for example against certain groups of people or political decisions. We explain everything about this topic in the article Fake news, conspiracies and disinformation – what does it actually mean? The text False information on the internet explains the background in plain language.

What is the effect of “fake news”?

“Fake news” is invented or distorted news that relies on strong emotions to attract attention and spread quickly. They can distort public opinion and promote false beliefs. You can find out more about this in our parents’ guide article Fake news – dealing with disinformation and false reports on the internet.

How do deepfakes work?

Deepfakes are videos or audios that have been faked with the help of artificial intelligence. They look real even though they are not. People are shown as if they were saying or doing things that never actually happened. Deepfakes can be used to spread false information or make someone look bad. Read the article Deep fakes – deceptively real fakes to find out what you can watch out for as a parent.

What is behind conspiracy myths?

Simple answers to difficult questions – conspiracy narratives are often behind this. These complex narratives explain events or situations with secret plans or powers. Such myths can quickly spread online, fuel mistrust of official bodies and lead to unreasonable behavior. You can find out more about this in our article Conspiracy myths on the internet.

How does extremism spread online?

Whether on social media, messengers or in online games – children and young people can come across extremist propaganda anywhere online. Extremist groups use the internet to spread their ideologies and recruit new followers. They often use manipulative content and misleading disinformation to achieve their goals. Our article Extremism online explains more about the background and how you can protect your child.

How do I recognize prohibited symbols online?

Some symbols, such as the swastika, are prohibited due to their association with unconstitutional organizations or ideologies. The dissemination of such symbols can contribute to the spread of extremist views and have consequences under criminal law. Our article Prohibited symbols on the internet sheds light on the dangers for children and where parents can get information.

What does Dark Social mean?

The term dark social refers to the dissemination of content via private channels such as messenger services or emails that are not publicly visible. Such distribution channels make it more difficult to track disinformation and can increase its reach. If you would like to find out more, read the article Dark Social – the dark side of the internet.

What communication risks are there on the Internet?

Chatting, posting, liking – online communication is an important part of children and young people’s media use. However, it is associated with a number of challenges. Contact with strangers harbors risks such as hate speech, cybergrooming or sextortion. Conflicts are also possible among friends, for example through cyberbullying. Problems can arise in gaming through anonymous communication and trash talk. In our article, we explain how your family can deal with communication risks safely and confidently.

What parents should pay attention

The ability to connect with others online and develop their own opinions is an important part of children and young people’s development. However, during the orientation phase, they can be susceptible to easy solutions and radical views from extremists. Keep talking to your child about their media use, keep an open mind and listen. Explain to your child why they should not trust all content on the internet. Show them how to critically question and check information and give your child access to age-appropriate news formats. There are numerous online resources and tools that can help to recognize disinformation and deal with communication risks. klicksafe, for example, offers materials and explanatory videos that are specially designed for young people.