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Cyberbullying

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.

Extremism, populism and disinformation online

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.

Deep fakes – deceptively genuine counterfeits

The Internet is full of photos and videos. Images are often seen as proof of the truth of a report. However, photos and videos can also be manipulated or even faked. Deep fakes are just such counterfeits. They lead to the fact that disinformation can be spread even better, because they look very convincing.

What is it all about?

Thanks to artificial intelligence, sound or video recordings can be falsified or even completely recreated. Developers of deep fakes can, for example, put any statement in a person’s mouth or make them do things that they did not do in real life. The software analyzes recordings of a person and “learns” their facial expressions and gestures. After that, any sentences can be spoken and the recording manipulated to make it look as if the person said it themselves.

The three most common forms of deep fakes:

  • Face swapping: Here, a person’s face is placed on another body.
  • Voice cloning: Here, words are put into a person’s mouth.
  • Body Puppetry: Here, a person’s body movements are digitally imitated.

Such software can now be downloaded free of charge from the Internet. There are even relatively easy-to-use apps so that almost anyone can create and distribute deep fakes. As technology is constantly improving, counterfeits are becoming increasingly difficult to detect.

What fascinates young people about it?

Many young people encounter deep fakes in the form of humorous clips or parodies. If they fall for funny deep fakes, this is harmless in many cases. If the trick is explained afterwards, as in the video by a famous German YouTuber, it can even be an educational experience.

It becomes problematic when young people allow themselves to be manipulated by deep fakes or are targeted themselves. In other words, when a deep fake is created that exposes them. This can put a heavy burden on those affected and lead to serious consequences.

What can be problematic?

Fake videos are dangerous because they look so convincing. Children and young people in particular must first learn to question content critically.

  • Disinformation: Fake videos can be used to spread fake news and influence (political) opinions. They can spread hatred and incitement.
  • Damage to reputation: Individuals can become involved in scandals through manipulated content. This can affect members of the public as well as private individuals.
  • Extortion and fraud: Real-time deep fakes allow fraudsters to pretend to be someone else in video conferences or phone calls in order to steal money or sensitive information.

Although the use of third-party images is generally regulated by the right to one’s own image, deep fakes have long been a legal gray area. The Federal Council has been dealing with the issue since July 2024. The new law on the “violation of personal rights through digital falsification” provides for penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment, and up to five years in serious cases. The German government is also planning programs to improve the detection and regulation of deep fakes.

What parents should pay attention

Deep fakes are a rapidly growing phenomenon. While it’s not always easy to understand the technical details, it’s important that you talk to your child about these issues. Here are a few tips:

  • Open conversation: Show an interest in your child’s media consumption and create an atmosphere of trust so that they can turn to you if they have problems.
  • Responsible use: If your child wants to try out deep-fake apps, explain the ethical boundaries to them and discuss the legal consequences.
  • Critical handling: Show your child how to check whether it is a deep fake. Offer assistance with this:

Extremism on the Net

No longer a child, but not yet an adult: young people are in an exciting phase. They are forming their identity and opinions, looking for their place in the world and people they feel comfortable with. They ask a lot of questions, are curious and open to many things. This opens up opportunities for new ideas – but can also be a gateway for extremist world views.

How extremists reach young people

Extremism comes in many forms – be it right-wing or left-wing extremism, religious extremism or in the form of conspiracy myths. What all these forms have in common is that they work with simple but misleading answers that can only be exposed as false at second glance, that they present people with supposed scapegoats for every problem and that they stir up hatred.

Extremists try to reach young people via online channels with highly simplified content and short statements. They rely on current online trends such as entertaining videos and images, post memes and seemingly funny pictures or spread false reports to spread their messages in an inconspicuous and memorable way. They are active on all major networks – be it YouTube, WhatsApp or Facebook.

TikTok: Harmless-looking content with hidden messages

TikTok in particular is a preferred medium. It is used by more than half of all 12 to 19-year-olds and offers an enormous reach thanks to its algorithm. By posting catchy and seemingly harmless clips, extremists ensure that their content is flushed into many channels by the algorithm – and then benefit from the fact that content on the network spreads like snowballs as soon as users interact with it. The young people who watch and share the clips are often unaware at first that they are supporting extremist ideas because the messages are initially very hidden and subtly incorporated into seemingly harmless songs or clips. These videos are often shared before young people realize their problematic origin.

Discord: Spreading ideologies in gaming

Networks such as Discord, which are actually used for gaming, are also often used by extremists. They join gaming groups here, establish contact via a shared game and then spread their ideology. To do this, they often use images or well-known stories from games to reinterpret them for their own message. For young people, the line between the actual game and the extremist message can quickly become blurred.

Right-wing extremists and Islamists use similar strategies

Right-wing extremists and Islamists are particularly active on the internet. If their propaganda is clearly recognizable, it can usually be quickly deleted by the platform operators. This is why extremists like to switch to lesser-known and less strictly controlled online services such as the Russian platform vk.com after their first contact. A large part of the communication is not even visible to the public, but takes place in closed groups, e.g. on Telegram or Facebook. Young people who have been contacted via public portals are lured there – and that’s where they encounter the real, sometimes brutal or disturbing propaganda.

Both right-wing extremists and Islamists like to see themselves as victims. They pretend to be oppressed by their own or other states. Right-wing extremists in Germany often speak of the so-called “lying press”. They accuse the media of being controlled by the government, which is why extreme right-wing opinions have no voice. Both groups also express criticism of capitalism. This is particularly dangerous. Because aspects of the criticism are entirely justified and are shared by many young people. Extremists use this to win them over to their cause. Recently, anti-Semitic (i.e. anti-Jewish) conspiracy myths have increasingly been spread again from both camps. These conspiracy myths are now also being used by musicians who are popular with young people – for example in some songs by the German rapper Kollegah.

What parents should pay attention

It is therefore particularly important that you talk to your child about what is on their mind. Which topics are particularly hotly debated among friends? What images and videos do they look at and share? Also address the goals that certain groups pursue when they post content with extreme political statements online.

Make your child aware that anyone can express their opinion online – even people with bad intentions. That’s why you can’t just trust all content, you have to question it. On knowyourmeme.com, you can look up well-known memes including their history (unfortunately, the site is only available in English). Mimikama.at is a good place to check the veracity of messages from social networks such as Facebook.

If you or your child come across obviously extremist content, you can report it directly to the platform operators. With large services such as Facebook and YouTube, this can be done with just a few clicks. In general, you can also use the Internet Complaint Center. In particularly serious cases, it may make sense to contact the police directly. In most federal states, this can now be done online via a so-called Internet watch.

You should also use technical parental control settings. These can help to restrict, block or mute contact from strangers. Although they do not offer complete protection against extremist content, they can provide additional protection for your child. A helpful platform for this is medien-kindersicher.de, which offers instructions for parental control settings specifically for various networks, including Discord.

There are many good offers to strengthen young people against extremism:

Conspiracy myths on the net

Has your child heard about secret world conspiracies in a TikTok video or received a chain letter with strange claims from friends? Such situations are not uncommon. Conspiracy myths spread rapidly on social networks in particular and can have a lasting impact on young people’s world view.

What it’s about

Conspiracy narratives and fake news are similar because they contain information that is not true. However, conspiracy myths are more complex. They assume that everything – positive and negative events – is planned in order to achieve a specific goal. It is claimed that a small group of malicious actors are deliberately keeping the truth secret in order to advance their own interests.

Conspiracy myths have always existed. Especially in the case of significant or shocking events, they offer seemingly simple explanations for complicated relationships. It is often claimed that a secret group is controlling the fate of the world or spreading false facts in order to gain an advantage. Especially in uncertain and confusing times, many people fall back on such seemingly simple explanations.

How do myths spread online?

On the internet and via social networks, such stories spread particularly quickly and widely. When your child starts to take an interest in world events – usually in adolescence – and is increasingly independent on the internet, sooner or later they will come across conspiracy myths. This can happen via videos from influencers, posts on social media platforms or chain letters on WhatsApp.

TikTok thrives on short, captivating videos. The algorithm primarily shows content that matches users’ preferences. This quickly creates a spiral: once you watch or like a video with conspiracy myths, you will be presented with more such content. This makes the myths more present and credible for young people than they actually are.

Due to its lack of content control, Telegram provides a breeding ground for extreme opinions and myths. As there is no moderation or fact-checking, such content can be spread unhindered.

Platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) also play a role. Although it is less popular with young people, the lack of moderation there enables the rapid spread of conspiracy myths and radical views. Content from X can be disseminated via other networks, for example as memes, and thus also reach young people.

What fascinates young people about it?

Wars, assassinations or the outbreak of a worldwide pandemic are difficult to comprehend – for children and young people as well as for adults. Young people are just beginning to find their own identity and place in the world. They do not yet know exactly who they want to be and are looking for orientation. Conspiracy myths can fulfill important needs in this phase:

  • Simple answers: Complex topics such as pandemics or wars are made understandable.
  • Feeling of control: Knowing “who is to blame” gives a feeling of security.
  • Meaning and belonging: Being part of a “knowing” group gives young people the feeling of being special and belonging.
  • Identification and cohesion: Conspiracy narratives usually work according to the principle of “good versus evil”. The outward demarcation provides a sense of connectedness within the group.

What can be problematic?

Conspiracy stories can be entertaining, which is why they are often used in various media: the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, aliens living among us, the idea of the Earth as a disk – such thought experiments can be interesting for children and young people and awaken their creativity.

But even if some myths seem harmless, they harbor risks:

  • Radicalization: They can make young people more susceptible to extremist ideas.
  • Isolation: The separation from other opinions can lead to conflicts in the social environment.
  • Lack of fact-checking: Young people may take information on faith without questioning it.
  • Emotional stress: Threatening scenarios can fuel fears and undermine trust in institutions.

What parents should pay attention

Talk to your child about myths and help them to categorize and question them. Take your child seriously, even if they begin to engage intensively with conspiracy myths, accept parts of them as truth or exchange ideas with followers in communities. If you dismiss their interest with statements such as “It’s all just crazy conspiracy myths”, your child may distance themselves from you – and then look for like-minded people online. Instead of confronting your child with counter-arguments, you should ask critical questions together: Who is saying this? What motives could the storyteller have for spreading this story? Are there things that contradict each other? Are the sources trustworthy? Are there similar patterns in other conspiracy myths?

A critical approach to information is the most important tool against conspiracy myths. Show your child how to check the veracity of a source and provide access to reputable and age-appropriate news sources. You can also research the background and sources of the story together, as well as the arguments of the ‘other side’.

This can help:

News and information made for children

Conspiracy myths explained

  • For children: SRF Kids
  • For young people: funk
  • Material tip: Track down conspiracy myths with hidden object pictures(klicksafe)

Websites where you can check the truthfulness of news items

Information on elections and politics for children and young people

The election to the German Bundestag will take place on February 23, 2025. The topic of elections raises questions for many young people. Even children are often interested in political issues. However, voting systems in particular are a complex topic that is difficult to understand even for many adults. We have compiled a selection of high-quality online services that provide children and young people with age-appropriate answers to their questions about elections and politics.

Information pages for children

Kuppelkucker – the Bundestag explained for children

Kuppelkucker is the children’s website of the German Bundestag. Current news from the Bundestag for children aged 5 to 12 is published here twice a week. Explanations of terms and institutions of the German government can be found in the lexicon. Quizzes such as the election quiz, explanatory videos and audio clips such as this one on the Bundestag elections offer an interactive experience of the site.

logo! – Children’s news

logo!, the children’s news program on ZDF, also devotes some of its reports to the topic of elections and politics. An overview page explains various institutions in Germany, explains important terms and introduces individual parties. logo! also offers articles about the 2025 federal election. logo! is aimed at children between the ages of 8 and 12.

SWR Kindernetz – Knowledge portal for children

Südwestrundfunk regularly publishes child-friendly video and audio contributions on the SWR Kindernetz portal, supplemented by short knowledge articles. Here you can find some contributions on political topics such as the Bundestag elections or the Basic Law. Children can playfully test their knowledge in an election quiz.

Sendung mit der Maus – the popular knowledge program

Die Sendung mit der Maus has set up a special page on the subject of democracy and elections, on which video contributions for children aged 5 and over are available on topics such as postal voting, the Reichstag and laws.

Checker Welt – reports suitable for children

Presenter Checker Tobi from Checker Welt deals with the topic of democracy and the importance of elections in the report Democracy Check. The program is aimed at an audience aged 6 and over.

What is What – Non-fiction books for children

The well-known Was ist Was book series is aimed at children aged 8 and over. In addition to the non-fiction book Demokratie – deine Stimme zählt (Democracy – your vote counts), a brochure on democracy and elections in the typical Was ist Was style is available for free download on the website.

Children’s podcasts

Geolino Spezial is a knowledge podcast for children in which presenter Ivy goes on a journey of discovery around the world. Episode 81 is all about elections. You can listen to all podcast episodes on this Geolino website.

“How is a law made? What tasks do ministers have? How important are children’s rights?” – These are the questions addressed in the children’s podcast Ohrka. Here, child reporters interview politicians and get to the bottom of questions about democracy.

Information pages for young people

Hanisauland – political education for young people

The Hanisauland portal communicates political and social issues to children between the ages of 8 and 14 in a playful way. Knowledge articles and a lexicon explain important terms and topics. Children can post their own questions under the articles. The portal highlights special topics such as elections and the upcoming Bundestag elections. Children and young people can test what they have learned in the quiz on the topic of elections.

Federal Agency for Civic Education – Politics, History, International Affairs

The knowledge section of the Federal Agency for Civic Education provides answers to the most important questions about democracy and elections in the form of articles and booklets. A special overview page has been put together for the 2025 Bundestag elections, including the Wahl-O-Mat.

U18.org – Portal for first-time voters

U18.org is all about young issues in politics, youth elections, events and political education. Anyone under the age of 18 who wants to take part in the U18 election can find out more here on the website.

Youth portal – mitmischen.de – network and inform

The German Bundestag’s mitmischen.de portal encourages young people to become politically or journalistically active themselves.

Political education on social media

Social media channels for political education make it easy and entertaining to understand what is currently being discussed in politics and society. The politikverstehen_ channel on Instagram conveys knowledge about domestic and foreign policy. nini_erklaert_politik covers current political events in a humorous, simple and factual way on her Instagram account and her TikTok channel. On YouTube, influencers like LeFloid and networks like funk tackle social issues with factual accuracy and humor. DIE DA OBEN! by funk offers political content about the Bundestag on all social media channels.

What parents should pay attention

When it comes to political education, parents are an important role model for children. Emphasize the importance of elections and encourage your child to stand up for values such as democracy and social justice. Give your child access to age-appropriate news and information sites and search engines and talk to them about political issues. Because by gaining a certain basic understanding of democracy and elections, your child learns why their own opinion and vote are important. Do not force your child to do this, but build on their existing interest.

In connection with elections and democracy, disinformation and fake news are circulating on the internet and on social media platforms. Talk to your child about fake news online and explain to them how they can check news and content. HanisauLand or Team Timster offer programs for children and young people to educate them about fake news and the like.

Too old for children’s sites – too young for adult offerings

Too old for the children’s program, but still too young for the social media world? There is a time when your child doesn’t really know his place. It’s somewhere between childhood and adolescence. This affects many of the so-called “pre-teens”, the approximately 9-12 year olds. They are in a transition phase, which is also reflected in their media usage.

For younger children, there are many age-appropriate offerings such as children’s apps, radio plays and children’s programs. As children get older, they are often no longer so interested in these – and turn directly to the adult world of media. The jump is quite big and the offer can still partly overwhelm your child.

An important developmental phase for your child

At the onset of puberty, your child is on the cusp of becoming an adolescent. In some things it still behaves childlike, in others it already wants to separate itself from you. It is increasingly oriented to elders and to people, trends and ideas outside the family. As a result, there is less and less interest in children’s media.

During this phase, many children get their first smartphone and immerse themselves more and more independently in the world of online media. They have their first experiences in online games and on social media platforms. They follow stars such as influencers and streamers, interact with other users and develop their own identity. Pre-teens often lack an understanding of how to handle their own data or challenges such as communication risks online.

What you should pay attention to as a parent

Whether your child still wants to watch children’s programs or is already interested in computer games, social media or TV shows for older children – support your child according to their stage of development and give them the time they need.

Gradually, you should relinquish control and support your child in being able to use media independently, safely and responsibly. Although your child has already gained some experience, he or she will still approach many things with an open mind, which means that they can easily come into contact with content that is harmful to minors online. Your child’s curiosity and desire to increasingly set themselves apart from adults will also lead them to seek out provocative content. Nevertheless, as parents, you still have an important role to play in providing guidance during the transition phase. Always talk to your child and ask about their media experiences.

Offers for the transition phase

Finding offers for pre-teens is not that easy and not every child will be interested. For computer games and films, there are age ratings from the Voluntary Self-Regulation Body. They indicate whether the content is unproblematic for development from a certain age. If you take a closer look, there are media offerings tailored to children in the transition phase both in traditional media and online.

Here are a few recommendations:

  • Films, series and video clips: Our article on educational film recommendations presents various film portals. One example is Flimmothe program guide for parents. Here you will also find educational assessments of popular channels on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram.
  • Games: The NRW games guide has taken a close look at many computer games and game apps and rated them pedagogically. You can search for suitable games for your child here.
  • Podcasts: Whether audio stories or cultural talk – podcasts are very much in vogue. In two articles, we present recommended podcasts for children and young people.
  • Search engines: In the article Search engines for children and young people, we present children’s search engines such as fragFINN for example. We explain how children can use adult search engines safely with the help of parental control filters.
  • Info platforms: Hanisauland actively and playfully introduces children and young people to politics. Handysektor deals with young people’s media issues and addresses them directly in clips and articles. Juuuport informs young users about online risks and offers free digital advice.
  • Online communities: Knipsclub is a photo community that offers a safe introduction to the world of social media. On kindersache registered users can contribute their own videos, jokes and stories.

You should also allow your child to take advantage of offerings that are not specifically for children. Find out about programs and content in advance. When you watch a movie, play a game or surf the Internet together as a family, your child has the opportunity to ask questions and you can see how he or she copes with certain content.

Youth and media: Insights from the JIM Study 2024

The JIM Study (Youth, Information, Media) 2024 provides exciting insights into the media use of young people (aged 12 to 19) in Germany. It is conducted every year by the Media Education Research Association Southwest. Here we summarize the most important results for parents and give tips on how they can support their children.

How long are young people online?

In 2024, young people will spend an average of 201 minutes online per day – this is less than in 2023 (224 minutes) and the lowest figure since 2016. Many young people now enjoy consciously spending time without their smartphone: 60% say that they regularly take such breaks. Nevertheless, the smartphone remains the most important device: 96% of young people use it every day. They write messages, watch videos, use social media or do research for school.

Popular platforms

  • WhatsApp is the most used app with 96 percent.
  • Instagram and YouTube follow with around 60 percent regular use.
  • TikTok is being used less than in the previous year, while new apps such as BeReal are slowly gaining popularity.

Social media also plays a role in the search for information: 37% of young people find out about current topics on platforms such as Instagram or TikTok. However, 63% specifically avoid news because they are bothered by negative reports.

Artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday life

AI tools such as ChatGPT are becoming increasingly popular: 62% of young people have already used them, especially for school (65%). Functions in apps such as Google Assistant or Snapchat AI are also popular. Young people use these not only for learning, but also for creative projects or hobbies.

Leisure and hobbies

Despite digital media, face-to-face meetings and sport remain important: 65% of young people regularly meet friends or play sport. Younger teenagers spend more time with their families, while older teenagers often organize their free time themselves – for example with hobbies or volunteering. Leisure activities are increasingly accompanied by digital media, e.g. gaming and online tutorials.

Problematic content and security

Problems such as fake news, cyberbullying and contact with problematic content are omnipresent. 61% of young people report encounters with fake news, while extremist and offensive content is perceived as particularly distressing. These challenges underline the need to promote media literacy. Schools and parents can play a key role by teaching the critical use of information and the importance of digital security

What should parents pay attention to?

  • Open communication: Have regular open conversations with your child about their online activities and experiences.
  • Promote media literacy: Help your child to question content critically and navigate the internet safely.
  • Balanced media use: Help your child to find a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
  • Raise security awareness: Make your child aware of data protection and the risks of disclosing personal information.

In addition to this article, we also offer in-depth insights into the media use of young children with the miniKIM study and the media habits of children with the KIM Study 2022. The results and further information on the JIM Study 2024 can be found in detail on the website of the Medienpädagogischer Forschungsverbund Südwest.

Media literacy – what does that actually mean?

Digital media enrich our everyday lives in many different ways: Music programs at the breakfast table, navigation apps on the go or chats for organizing leisure activities. (Screen) devices help us to learn, to work and are often fun. No wonder they have become an integral part of our everyday lives, whether at home or in public spaces.

However, with the growing importance of media, the ability to use them responsibly and competently is also becoming increasingly important. Today, media literacy is just as essential as reading, writing or arithmetic in order to be able to navigate the modern world safely and successfully. Anyone who does not know how to use media in a targeted and considered way can quickly run into difficulties. But what exactly does media literacy mean?

What does media literacy involve?

Being media literate means more than just being able to operate a device. Although this is part of it, at its core it is about the conscious and responsible use of content. This includes the following aspects:

  • Conscious use of media content: Media literacy means choosing which content to use. This means, for example, searching for specific information and being able to distinguish between credible sources and fake news. It also means avoiding content that could be harmful. Or consciously deciding how much time you want to spend with media in order to avoid stress.
  • Navigate and communicate safely: To use media safely, it is important to know the rules, prohibitions and dangers. Anyone who is active on social networks must know how to treat others with consideration, must protect and respect their own and others’ data and privacy – and should be able to assess and avoid scams such as phishing or data theft, as well as behavior such as cyberbullying.
  • Active and creative media use: Competent media use also means using media actively and creatively instead of just passively consuming content. This means, for example, researching, learning new things and using media at school, at work or privately. It means using new technologies such as AI-based services where they help – but also knowing their limits. And it means using media for enriching experiences.

Those who are media literate know why and how they use media, can recognize negative effects and counteract them, while positive aspects are specifically promoted.

Why is media literacy important?

The call for “more media literacy” is often directed at children and young people. This is understandable, as they will shape the world of tomorrow. We may not know this world yet, but it will be heavily influenced by media, especially the internet.

You can imagine the internet as a city: There are playgrounds and nice stores, but also traffic and strangers. Parents don’t just send their young children off on their own, they accompany them, explain the rules and show them what to look out for. This is exactly how it should be on the Internet. Accompany your child as they explore the digital world.

Developing media literacy is a joint task from the very beginning – in the family, at nursery and at school. The younger the child, the more responsibility parents have and the more they act as role models. As they get older, children and young people can and should be allowed to have their own experiences – including with their own devices. Common rules and an open discussion are helpful here.

Media literacy – a task for all generations

Media literacy is not a “children’s game”, it is just as important for adults! Parents who want to help their children use media responsibly need to be media literate themselves. Only those who understand digital technologies and platforms can provide guidance and act as role models. You should therefore actively engage with digital topics – through joint projects with your children, exchanges with other parents or further training courses in schools and education centers. Teachers are also called upon to strengthen their own media skills in order to pass on this knowledge. Helpful information can be found, for example, in ARD programs such as “Gemeinsam Medienkompetenz stärken“.

In addition, working people and older people also benefit from better media skills. Professional development and digital work processes often require new skills. For senior citizens, media offer numerous opportunities, such as contact with grandchildren via video chats. If you want to test your own media skills, you can find out with a self-test.

Which movies, series and video clips are right for my child? Making the right choice with educational recommendations

The world of film is exciting and diverse – and children and young people in particular love to immerse themselves in stories and identify with media heroes. However, not every offer that looks tempting is suitable for young viewers. As a parent, it is your job to give your child access to age-appropriate content. But how can you keep track of the jungle of streaming services, TV programs, movies, social media channels and media libraries?

Educational age recommendations and independent movie reviews can help you make informed decisions and select suitable content together with your child. In this article, we present four platforms.

KinderFilmWelt – the movie portal for children

Would your child like to search for exciting movies online themselves? KinderFilmWelt is a free and secure film portal aimed directly at children aged three to 13. Here, young film fans can find child-friendly reviews of current movies, TV broadcasts, streaming offers and DVD/Blu-ray releases. The films are rated by the editorial team and given educational age recommendations. They show the age from which the films are particularly recommendable and easy to understand. Users can rate films themselves with up to five hearts. The site offers a film lexicon that explains terms from the world of film and offers the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes of filmmaking via educational films. KinderFilmWelt is published by the German Children’s and Youth Film Center (KJF), which is funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs. The portal bears the Seitenstark seal of approval for digital children’s media.

More info: https://www.kinderfilmwelt.de/

FLIMMO – the parents’ guide for child-friendly moving image content

Do you need help choosing something suitable for your child from the multitude of moving image offerings? FLIMMO is a free and ad-free guide that helps families choose TV shows, streaming content and social media channels. FLIMMO uses a traffic light system to show whether a movie, series or online channel is suitable for children. Age recommendations help with the selection of age-appropriate content. Educational assessments explain what children like about the content, which aspects could be problematic and what parents should pay particular attention to. FLIMMO also offers practical tips on media education in the family, such as recommendations on going to the movies for the first time or tips on switching off. FLIMMO is published by Programmberatung für Eltern e.V.

More information: Parents’ guide article FLIMMO

filmdienst.de – the portal for cinema and film culture

Would you like to immerse yourself in the world of film and be inspired? filmdienst.de is an online portal for cinema, film culture and film criticism published by the Catholic Film Commission for Germany. It offers comprehensive ratings and reviews, interviews and portraits of filmmakers and news from film culture, such as festival reports. For you as parents, the platform offers educationally recommended children’s and youth films and thematic film recommendations, such as on friendship or school. Educational age recommendations give an indication of when it is worth watching (together). This makes it easier for you to find suitable films for different occasions or your child’s interests.

More info: https://www.filmdienst.de/suche/filme

German Film and Media Rating (FBW) – award-winning films

The German Film and Media Rating Board (FBW) is an independent institution that assesses films according to their quality and awards outstanding works with the ratings “valuable” or “particularly valuable”. The ratings indicate a particular quality in terms of content and artistry. In the “Children’s and youth films” category on the website, parents can find high-quality films on a wide range of exciting topics – even beyond the well-known blockbusters. In the “Short Film Edition”, the FBW publishes recommended short films for children aged 4 and over, including accompanying media education material on DVD. Another offer is the FBW Youth Film Jury, in which children and young people from the age of 10 rate films and publish their recommendations on the Youth Jury website. These reviews give children and parents additional insights into age-appropriate films.

More info: https://www.fbw-filmbewertung.com/kinderfilme

What parents should pay attention

Educational recommendations should not be confused with age ratings in accordance with the German Youth Protection Act. Age ratings such as those issued by the Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry(FSK) aim to protect children and young people from content that is harmful to their development. They are not a recommendation and cannot say anything about whether your child can handle the content well.

Educational recommendations assess whether a film or series is understandable, appealing and beneficial for a certain age group in terms of content and emotion. Educational assessments show how a medium can support or stimulate children and young people in their development. For example, films and series that address themes such as friendship, courage or cohesion and stand for certain values are recommended.

However, do not rely solely on recommendations, as every child develops differently. Actively accompany your child in their media use right from the start and observe them to understand how they react to certain content.

The Youth Protection Act

Just as the Highway Code lays down rules for safe traffic, the Youth Protection Act ensures that children and young people are protected in the media world. Especially in a digitalized society, it is more important than ever to offer young people guidance and protection.

Children and young people in a digitalized world

The Youth Protection Act(JuSchG) regulates, among other things, how media must be designed today so that children and young people are not exposed to any dangers when using it. The comprehensively modernized version, which has been in force since May 2021, focuses more strongly on digital services. While previous versions focused primarily on so-called carrier media such as video cassettes and DVDs, CR-ROMs or audio carriers, the updated law also takes into account the challenges of the internet. Media providers must comply with this, otherwise they face penalties. However, this is not so easy because it is a German law and the Internet knows no national borders. However, if the providers of certain services are based in Germany, they must follow these rules. The EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which has provided uniform rules for digital service providers across Europe since the beginning of 2024, brings additional pressure.

The most important regulations

The Youth Protection Act stipulates the age at which young people may have access to certain media – films, programs and online content. In doing so, it draws on the age ratings of the self-regulatory bodies. Providers are obliged to make default settings that protect children and young people in particular from interaction risks such as bullying, sexualized speech(cybergrooming), hate speech, tracking and cost traps.

Many online services and apps therefore have integrated parental control settings, for example TikTok and Instagram. They carry out precise checks on how old users are or even use video procedures to prove their identity. Nevertheless, it is difficult to implement this rule: It is almost impossible to find out for sure whether the answer is really correct by simply asking the user’s age.

The law also provides for reliable, uniform age ratings for games and films that are used online. In addition, the classification is no longer based solely on content, but also on possible interaction risks such as cybergrooming and cost traps.

Previously, the familiar age ratings of the USK and FSK only applied to games and films that were available on so-called carrier media (such as CD-ROMs or video cassettes). Online providers did not have to provide any age information.

Children and young people should be able to easily seek help and complain if they feel threatened or harassed while using media.

The new Federal Agency for the Protection of Children and Young People in the Media is to ensure that these regulations are actually enforced. Organizations such as the Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle Multimedia-Diensteanbieter e.V. have online complaints offices to which young media users and adults can turn to report illegal content or content harmful to minors.

Since 2024, there have also been new regulations throughout Europe for offers that are particularly aimed at children and young people:

Platforms must explain their terms and conditions (terms and conditions of use) in such a way that young users can also understand them well.

The long, hard-to-read texts that are often carelessly clicked away when registering must therefore be replaced by new, comprehensible texts. This should enable children and young people to really understand what they are getting into when they sign up.

Privacy, security and protection of minors should be improved: Providers of apps or programs should take measures to protect their users as well as possible from dangers such as fraud, bullying or hate speech.

Unfortunately, the exact measures have not yet been defined and there are few exemplary solutions. However, the European Commission can issue guidelines to support providers in implementing the precautionary measures.

On platforms such as Tiktok or Instagram, young users create profiles that also contain private information. According to current regulations, however, children and young people may no longer be shown personalized advertising based on this information.

The platform operators must also conscientiously ask the age of the users for this – because children and young people are even less able to see through the fact that personalized advertising is being targeted at them, which is why they need even greater protection than adults.

Orientation for parents

The repeated revisions of the Youth Protection Act are important in order to adapt legal regulations to the media reality of children and young people. The law can be an important guide for you as parents and offers protection to a certain extent. At least if the providers comply with the obligations set out in the law. Unfortunately, it cannot be ensured that this is always the case. In addition, a frame does not fit each child individually. That is why you should accompany your child very closely in his or her media use, especially in the younger years. The older your child gets, the more freedom they need. Always stay in touch about his media use. This is the only way you can help if, despite protective measures, it has unpleasant experiences on the net or does not understand something.

Media tips around Christmas

The smell of cookies, shopping stress, shining children’s eyes: the holidays are approaching and digital devices and games are on the wish lists of many children and young people. What should parents consider before and after giving a gift? Between the years and during the vacations, there is also time for shared family media experiences. How can this be designed in a safe, age-appropriate and even creative way? In this article, we give you an overview of offers from the Elternguide.online partner network.

Using media to combat boredom

The Christmas vacations can be long, especially when the weather outside doesn’t really invite you to play. You probably have devices such as smartphones, tablets, cameras or a laptop lying around at home. How about you and your child simply getting started, taking photos or filming yourselves, trying out new creative apps and actively organizing media time? It’s great fun and your child will also learn something about media skills.

On the website kinder.jff.de there are suggestions for simple media projects that children aged 6 and over can do on their own or from the age of 3 with support from you as parents at home. This is helped by child-friendly video instructions in which the implementation of the media projects is shown step by step. How about a photo memory with Christmas tree decorations or an audio story about Christmas traditions?

For young photo fans between the ages of 8 and 12, the knipsclub offers a safe environment in which they can try out their skills in a closed and pedagogically supervised photo community and exchange photos with each other. On the website you will find creative photo tips, for example on painting with light. A real eye-catcher, especially on New Year’s Eve!

(Media) challenges in the family

You are probably familiar with challenges from social media, e.g. dance challenges on TikTok. Children and young people love to take on challenges. Challenges don’t necessarily only have to take place on the Internet, you can also play them at home with your family! Why not try out the top photo challenge, the clip challenge or the re-enactment challenge? We have made a few suggestions in our parents’ guide article. You can find more Advent challenges on the website of the JFF project webhelm.de.

Finding child-friendly answers to questions about Christmas

Children have many questions and learn early on that their questions will be answered on the Internet. How is Christmas celebrated in other countries? What craft tips and baking recipes are there for Christmas? The children’s search engine fragFINN offers children access to 3,500 verified websites, including around 400 children’s sites. Primary school children can gain their first Internet experience here in a protected surfing room and learn how to use search engines and search results. In the fragFINN Advent calendar, children can open a little door every day, behind which there are links to other children’s sites with a wide range of information and offers suitable for the winter season.

You can find more playful learning pages in this parents’ guide article.

Christmas movie tips from FLIMMO

Your child will probably also enjoy watching videos. If you are still looking for suitable films, series or YouTube clips, take a look at FLIMMO and have a look.

In addition to age information and educational recommendations for all formats from TV, streaming, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram, you will find winter movie tips from the Grüffelokind to the Grinch and the Polar Express under the special “Highlights in Advent”. A TV evening together can be a really nice family experience, especially when it’s as cold and dark outside as it is during the winter vacations. In this article, FLIMMO explains what you need to bear in mind when adding media to your wish list.

A smartphone under the Christmas tree – a good idea?

Parents must decide individually when their child is ready for their first smartphone, depending on their level of development and experience. After all, a smartphone theoretically opens up the whole world of the Internet to your child, with all its opportunities and risks. klicksafe offers extensive information for parents. Use the smartphone readiness checklist to see whether a smartphone is ready for the Christmas tree. Has the decision been positive? Then find out about technical setting options for Android and iOS and watch the instructions in the form of explanatory videos. You can find all information material from klicksafe in this topic special.

Would you like to prepare your child for the first smartphone under the Christmas tree? Child-friendly information on the first smartphone is available in the children’s magazine Genial Digital from the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk. The fragFINN app gives your child a protected surfing space on their first smartphone and gives them access to quality, positive content.

Are you considering buying a smartwatch as an alternative? Then take a look at this topic from klicksafe. Please note: technical protective measures are no substitute for family discussions and media rules. Stay in contact with your child and accompany them as they take their first steps with a smartwatch or smartphone.

Using media safely – with the help of technical youth media protection

In addition to discussions and media rules, technical youth media protection is an important component of media education. Use the settings for screen time and Digital Wellbeing settings on smartphones to set time limits for the entire device or for different apps and to filter content. The youth protection program JusProg offers a precise filter option for websites and safe default settings for mobile devices and laptops. Google Family Links and YouTube Kids offer in the world of the internet giant Google offer the opportunity to make media experiences safer for your child. Social media apps such as Instagram and TikTok also offer safety features and options for parental guidance. Streaming with the family can be a fun activity during the vacations. Almost all streaming services have certified offers for the protection of minors. Use your own child profiles and the parental control function with the PIN. Many of the youth protection programs have been approved by the expert commission of the Voluntary Self-Regulation of Multimedia Service Providers (FSM). You can find out more about technical solutions for the protection of minors in the media on the FSM website.

Detailed instructions for all devices can be found on the website medien-kindersicher.de.

Smart gift giving – tips for games under the Christmas tree

Which games should I give my child for Christmas? Are games okay for preschoolers? In the family section of the USK website and via the USK brochures, you will find all the information you need on the USK’s age ratings, the additional information and how to deal with the subject of games in the family.

The USK mark indicates the age at which a game does not cause any developmental impairments. The additional information such as “fantasy violence” or “pressure to act” gives parents a good indication of whether a game is suitable for their own child. Educational assessments of games can be found at the NRW games guide. Descriptions of popular games like Fortnite, Minecraft or Roblox are available on Elternguide.online. The USK lexicon explains the most important terms, devices and genres.

Would you like to make your child happy with a game for Christmas? Find out about the distribution channels for games and technical precautionary measures. Various settings for the protection of minors can be made on consoles as well as in game stores and the games themselves. Play together with your child and ask them interesting questions about their favorite games.

The team at Elternguide.online wishes you and your family a wonderful Christmas season and lots of fun using media safely and creatively!

Age ratings of media – Who is behind it?

FSK, USK, PEGI, FSF and FSM – these are all abbreviations for institutions for the protection of minors in the media, so-called self-regulatory bodies. Parents come across their logos and age ratings everywhere: in app stores, on streaming services, on DVDs or in TV programs. We explain who or what exactly is behind them.

How does the protection of minors work?

The Youth Protection Act and the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media stipulate that media must not endanger the development of children and young people – for example through violence or other critical content. Age limits such as 0, 6, 12, 16 or 18 years help to classify content accordingly.

The audit is carried out by various self-regulatory bodies:

  • FSK (Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry): Films in cinemas or on DVD/Blu-ray etc.
  • USK (Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body): Digital games
  • FSF (Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle Fernsehen e.V.): TV content and TV-like content on the Internet
  • FSM (Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle Multimedia-Diensteanbieter e. V.): Online media
  • PEGI (Pan European Games Information): Video games at European level. Often these appear in addition to USK labels. PEGI sometimes uses different age ratings than in Germany. The USK ratings are more important for the German market, as they are based on the law applicable here.

Age markings and media access

  • Streaming services: Providers such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video adopt the age ratings of the FSK or set the age level themselves. Parents can use categories such as “from 6” or “from 12” to assess which content is suitable. In addition, many platforms offer children’s profiles and PIN protection to block unsuitable content.

Tip: FSK ratings help to assess whether content is generally approved for young people. They are not a recommendation and do not help you decide whether your child can process the content emotionally. Platforms such as FLIMMO offer additional educational recommendations.

  • Apps and mobile media: Age ratings (e.g. “from 3”, “from 12”) are also mandatory in app stores. Among other things, they take advertising, data protection and in-app purchases into account. Parents can use parental control functions in the iOS or Android operating systems, for example, to ensure that only suitable apps are installed and used. Incidentally, there are different age markings in the app stores: In the Google Playstore, you will find the USK markings, while Apple in turn sets its own age markings in the App Store.

Tip: Platforms such as Spieleratgeber NRW rate apps not only according to age, but also according to their educational value.

  • Gaming platforms: Computer games are tested by the USK in Germany. For parents, consoles and PC platforms offer protective measures such as game time limits, age filters and the blocking of chats.

Tip: Check age ratings and discuss with your child what content is appropriate.

What should parents pay attention to?

The age ratings are a measure for the protection of minors. The aim is not to impair the development of children and young people, for example by depicting violence or sexual acts. The age ratings are binding. An 18+ game may not be sold to younger children and films that are rated 12+ may not be seen in cinemas by younger children without an accompanying adult.

Things are a little different within your own four walls: the state does not generally regulate what media content your child is allowed to watch at home. You may make media content accessible to your child that is not approved for their age. However, the duty to educate must not be violated in the process. You need to assess how your child handles certain content and whether he or she can process it. The age ratings provide a good orientation! FSK, USK and FSF ratings provide no information as to whether children already understand the content and whether it is recommended for a certain age from an educational point of view. However, the individual justifications of classified films, series and games can be read on the websites of the self-regulatory bodies. You should also take a look at educational recommendations, such as the NRW games guide and spielbar.de for games and the FLIMMO website for films, series and TV programs.

Help, I don’t understand my child anymore! – When parents and children speak different languages

What words did you use when you were younger – and what did your parents think? Think about it. Because it is perfectly normal that sometimes you do not understand your child because he uses words that you do not know or understand.

Distinction from the adult world

Our language is shaped by the adult world. Adolescents have a strong need to form their own identity, to become independent and to distinguish themselves from adults. This is also expressed in the so-called youth language with which they create their own world. With their own language, or at least their own terms, they create something of their own and typical of youth. This connects and creates self-confidence. Using the “outdated” slang of the parents would sound old-fashioned and uncool.

Youth slang is shaped by the language on the net

In each new generation, in certain youth scenes and even in different places, youth language changes and there are different words and expressions. Typically, young people speak more easily than adults. In doing so, they sometimes use unusual or unfamiliar terms. The language is less “correct” because young people speak more spontaneously. Instead, it transports much more feelings and moods.

Online communication also has a strong influence on how young people speak or write. In messenger chat, for example, emojis and stickers are used. The language is significantly abbreviated and often incorrect. Terms from the gaming and rap scene, from influencers and, above all, from the English language that dominates the internet are used. Many terms are reflected in hashtags, such as #staywoke for the visibility of social inequality. Which language young people use depends on where they are on the Internet and which trend is currently in vogue. In this way, they show which youth culture they feel they belong to and which media role models they emulate.

Do you know these terms?

Check out your knowledge around your child’s language. The following words will be particularly popular in 2024. At the end of the post you will find the resolution.

  • Aura
  • Talahon
  • Ach
  • Scissors
  • Yurr
  • Hell no
  • No Pascal, I don’t think so
  • Pyrotechnics

Dealing with the language of young people

So there is no serious reason to worry if you sometimes do not understand your child. Respect the desire for boundaries and generally be understanding if your child uses different words than you do. But that doesn’t mean you have to let him tell you everything. Especially if the language is indecent, hurtful or offensive. Tell your child. Make it clear to them why they should not speak to others in the same way and, if necessary, agree on rules for dealing with each other. The use of youth language can also be problematic in online communication, for example in trash talk in online games or cyberbullying. Talk to your child about respectful behavior online. The same rules that apply offline for fair and respectful interaction should also be observed online: Fairness, openness and respect.

You are and will always be the adult your child wants to be different from. Therefore, do not try to approach linguistically. This is more likely to be perceived by your child as an invasion of his or her privacy. Speak the way you always do. Nevertheless, you can occasionally enjoy your child’s imaginative word creations and ask if you don’t understand something!

Solutions:

  • AURA is mainly used jokingly and refers to the charisma or status of a person
  • TALAHON (from the Arabic “Come here!” / “Come here if you dare!”) is a term used to refer to male Arab youths with a migration background who often also wear fanny packs, gold chains, sunglasses and fake brand-name clothes. The term is highly controversial because it is used on social media to devalue Arab and Muslim young people and their style of dress.
  • AKH (Arabic for “brother”) is used as a form of address for friends or acquaintances
  • YURR comes from US-American slang and means “Yes” (as consent) or “What’s up?” (as a greeting)
  • HELL NO (from the English “hell no”) expresses contradiction or rejection
  • NO PASCAL, I DO NOT THINK (known from the program “Help me! Young, broke, desperate”) is used to negate a statement
  • PYROTECHNIK as an expression arose in connection with the European Championship, where pyrotechnics were banned in the stadium. It expresses that someone is in favor of the use of pyrotechnics at sporting events

Talahon – a TikTok trend between youth culture and stereotypes

Numerous videos are currently circulating on TikTok in which young men attract attention with striking outfits and dramatic poses. They present themselves as “strong” figures, box into the camera or throw cool slogans. The so-called “talahon” trend inspires many young people and at the same time leads to discussions about role models and prejudices. We explain what is behind the phenomenon and the challenges it poses.

What is it all about?

The “Talahon” trend revolves around a special type of video on TikTok in which mostly young men with a migrant background present themselves in eye-catching outfits: Sweatpants, branded accessories such as fanny packs from Gucci, loose-fitting T-shirts and eye-catching jewelry. The term “talahon” is derived from the Arabic expression “taeal huna” (تعال هنا), which means “come here”. The term became known through the song “TA3AL LAHON” by rapper Hassan, which addresses the hard, urban life and often serves as background music in these videos.

But “Talahon” is more than just visual self-presentation. For many young people, this trend symbolizes strength and recognition. Especially for those who move between different cultures. The style is sometimes humorous and ironic, but is also often interpreted as an expression of pride and belonging. At the same time, the trend offers an outlet for the social pressure and prejudices to which these young people are exposed.

What fascinates young people about it?

The appeal of the trend lies in the search for identity and belonging, which is particularly formative in the adolescent phase. Many young people long for recognition and a way to stand out on social media and in front of their peers. The “talahon” style conveys strength and rebellion. It allows young people to present themselves beyond classic role models. Studies show that young people often experiment to try out different roles and affiliations – and TikTok offers a perfect stage for this.

For many, “Talahon” embodies the desire for recognition in a society in which young people with a migrant background live between different cultures and often struggle with prejudice. The trend is therefore also perceived as an expression of autonomy and independence

What can be problematic?

The “Talahon” trend is more than just a youthful style movement – it reinforces stereotypical ideas in some cases and can therefore fuel existing prejudices against young people with a migrant background. The stereotypical staging of “tough masculinity” in these videos, often with aggressive gestures and a rebellious demeanor, suggests a certain image of migrant youth that can easily be misunderstood by the public. For younger viewers in particular, who see such portrayals as role models, this harbors the risk of adopting one-sided role models as “real” images of masculinity.

Another problem is the increasing instrumentalization of the term “Talahon” in right-wing political circles. Originally used humorously, it is now often used as a pejorative and as a collective term for clichés about “problem youths” or those “unwilling to integrate”. Right-wing groups use these videos specifically to spread a negative image of young migrants and stir up social tensions. The stereotypical portrayal in “Talahon” videos creates a distorted image that generalizes young people and ascribes problematic characteristics to them – from “dangerousness” to “unwillingness to integrate socially”. This content is often accompanied by racist comments on social media, which include calls for deportations and blanket condemnations.

The stereotypical portrayal tempts some young people with a history of migration to conform to this role model in order to find recognition and a sense of belonging. In the long term, this can restrict their identity and reinforce their feeling of being an outsider. At the same time, this can lead to prejudice in society and discrimination.

This is what parents should pay attention to

  • Ask openly, show interest: Talk openly with your child about what exactly they find exciting about the trend and ask how they perceive the content and what they think of it. Open conversations encourage critical thinking and can help to question problematic content.
  • Address and critically classify stereotypes: Explain that many portrayals in social media are exaggerated and often staged. Show your child that such stereotypes do not necessarily reflect real life images. Explain that Talahon can reinforce such stereotypes.
  • Strengthening alternative role models: Talk about different images of masculinity. Point out that there are many ways to present yourself. Make it clear to your child that strength is also visible in respectful interaction with others. Positive role models and open conversations about the diversity of identities can help to develop a balanced self-image.
  • Teach values: Discuss with your child which values are important in your family and how these can be implemented in everyday life – for example, by showing respect and treating others with appreciation.
  • Promote media literacy: Help your child to develop a reflective approach to TikTok and other social media. Make them aware of the effect of algorithms that can amplify certain content and encourage them to question content critically.
  • Encourage alternative forms of expression: Show interest in other creative activities and alternative role models who embody values such as cooperation, helpfulness and diversity. Show that young people can express themselves strongly and independently without stereotypes.
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