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Online shopping at Shein, Temu & Co. – to be enjoyed with caution

Clothing, leisure items, school supplies … shopping is often done online these days. Young people in particular like to use Shein and Temu, for example. The stores entice shoppers with very low prices, high discounts and targeted advertising – especially on social media. But caution is advised.

Temu and Shein – what’s behind the online stores?

For a long time, Amazon was the undisputed largest online retailer. However, other platforms have become increasingly present in recent years. They are called Temu, Shein, AliExpress or Wish, are often based in Asian countries and combine extremely low prices with a strikingly aggressive advertising strategy. The two largest and best-known providers are Shein and Temu:

  • Temu is an online marketplace from China, headquartered in Dublin, where companies sell items in all categories – from clothing and furnishings to electronics. Temu has been active in Germany since 2023. Users can not only shop via the portal, but also play games. The aim is to encourage them to return frequently.
  • Shein is an online store from Singapore that primarily offers “fast fashion” (i.e. very affordable and often short-lived clothing). The platform has been available in Germany since 2015. The company primarily advertises to a young target group on social networks and also works with influencers.

AliExpress and Wish also have similar offers and strategies – with comparable risks.

Why do these stores appeal so strongly to children and young people?

The platforms work with superlatives: they have extremely large product ranges that are changing rapidly. They offer very low prices and very high discounts – and they advertise louder, more aggressively and more pointedly than all other providers.

Children and young people can hardly avoid the platforms: they are shown personalized ads on social media, but influencers also frequently advertise online marketplaces. In this way, the platforms turn themselves into online trends and become attractive to young shoppers.

What should users know?

The seemingly unbelievable offers come at a price:

  • Poor quality: Because the bargain platforms primarily sell a lot of goods quickly and at a low price, they are often not of good quality. Both users and mystery shoppers complain that the cheap products are of poor quality and often do not meet their requirements.
  • No sustainability: The focus on quick sales means that sustainability falls by the wayside: the production and sales channels are opaque, manufacturing conditions, working conditions and product ingredients are often unclear and long flight routes have a negative impact on the environment.
  • Legal gray areas: Providers often operate in a legal gray area. They circumvent EU tax and customs regulations and have legal disputes with many EU countries due to a lack of consumer protection.
  • Data protection problems: And finally, stores often don’t take data protection very seriously either – they collect data and analyze it for their advertising strategies. There have also been accusations that data is being sold.

What parents should pay attention

If your child shops on these platforms, it is important that you take a close look together beforehand: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of such platforms. Consider together to what extent and for which products it makes sense to use them. And discuss how you can make the purchase as secure as possible: Many platforms require payment in advance – but the risk can be reduced by making sure you use secure payment methods such as buyer protection (e.g. with PayPal or credit cards). Also take a look at your cell phone settings: Only give the app the most necessary authorizations. For example, shopping providers do not need to know your location and push notifications can be deactivated.

Also question advertising on social media together: What is a genuine recommendation and what is paid advertising (sponsorship)? If your child shows interest in a product, don’t just look at the price, but also compare the quality from other suppliers. This will help you avoid disappointment or duplicate purchases.

Even better: look for sustainable, trustworthy and affordable alternatives to marketplaces together. Second-hand suppliers, for example, often also have a large selection of products at reasonable prices – and with far fewer catches.

Tip: Use this topic to talk to your child about values when shopping: Do clothes always have to be new? What is important to me – price, style, quality, environment? How much do I really need? Such conversations help young people to critically question consumption and make good decisions.

Further links and information

Podcasts for teenagers

They have been around since the turn of the millennium – but they have only become an integral part of everyday life in recent years, especially since the coronavirus pandemic: podcasts. Almost half of people in Germany regularly listen to podcasts – young people even more than adults. Many formats are aimed specifically at young people, others more at adults.

What is a podcast?

Podcasts are audio broadcasts that you can listen to or subscribe to online – similar to radio broadcasts, but more flexible: you can listen to them anytime and anywhere. The name is made up of “pod” (playable on demand) and “cast” (broadcast).

In addition to classic audio podcasts, there are also video podcasts or formats that combine both. Most podcasts appear regularly in series form – with a fixed topic, such as sport, culture or news. Sometimes the episodes are self-contained, sometimes they build on each other.

Podcasts are in trend

Audio formats are practical: they are easy to listen to on the go and can quickly relieve boredom. There are podcasts in which people talk casually about their everyday lives or “God and the world” – and others that deal specifically with certain topics. Many young people like podcasts because they are both entertaining and informative. Listening to podcasts often creates the feeling of being particularly close to the podcasters – especially when they talk about personal things. This sometimes has a similar effect to influencers on social media.

There are many podcasts that are deliberately made for young people and are dedicated to youth topics. Often, the “hosts” (i.e. the people who lead through the podcast) are very much in the foreground. Young people then listen not only because of the content, but above all because of the person, for example when influencers have their own podcasts. Podcasts such as “Dick & Doof“, “Hobbylos” or “Gemischtes Hack” are very popular with young people. But true crime podcasts are also popular, i.e. formats in which real criminal cases are told, such as in “Mordlust” or “ZEIT Verbrechen“.

What should parents pay attention to?

Unlike videos or games, podcasts do not yet have to be labeled with an age rating in order to protect minors. Labelling has long been considered, but the sheer number of podcasts makes it difficult to implement. So anyone can produce and publish a podcast – with any content. Therefore, regularly ask what podcasts your child listens to and find out about them.

Another point: Many podcasts contain advertising – it is often spoken directly by the hosts and is not always clearly recognizable. Advertising can have an influence, especially on young people. Many podcasts are financed by advertising.

In addition, platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Deezer automatically suggest new content based on listening behavior. Not all suggested formats are age-appropriate. Keep a watchful eye – or discover suitable content together with your child.

Listening recommendations for teenagers

Podcasts aimed specifically at young people are usually ad-free, have an age recommendation and deal with topics that interest young people. But there are definitely podcasts that don’t have a specific age recommendation, but are still well suited for teens. Here are a few tips:

  • Where’s the pressure? – Recommended for ages 13 and up, available via various platforms (including Spotify and Podimo): Two actresses from the youth series DRUCK talk about their personal experiences with first love, annoying parents and bullying. Although there have been no new episodes since 2020, the old ones are still popular.
  • Heinefunk – recommended from the age of 11, available via various platforms (including Apple Podcast and Spotify): The podcast of a grammar school can also be exciting, because here pupils themselves have their say. It’s about current school life, which can also be interesting for outsiders – or the suggestion to set up your own school podcast.
  • TWEEN Screen – recommended from the age of 11; available via ARD Audiothek and Podimo: The youth podcast from MDR deals with the topic of media use and answers questions from young users.
  • Podcast to join in – recommended from the age of 14, available via ARD Audiothek and Spotify: “Schreib mich ab” is not just an exciting crime story, but an interactive podcast experience. Young listeners can help determine how the story develops via the podcast’s Instagram profile.
  • Listen, feel, understand – recommended for ages 12 and up, available via many portals (including Spotify): Four young presenters invite exciting guests and talk about everything that moves them. Everyday life and exceptional situations, nutrition, politics, taboos. “How we feel” is exciting to listen to and to sort out yourself and your own feelings.
  • Aha effect to go – recommended for ages 12 and up, available via their website and Spotify, among others: a journalist and six dedicated young people get to the bottom of topics that have always interested them and research topics such as black holes, self-driving cars and oat milk. “The Science Reporters” is concentrated knowledge by and for young people.
  • Always well informed – recommended from the age of 9 or 14, e.g. in the ARD Audiothek & Spotify: There are plenty of good news podcasts for children and young people. For example, the NDR children’s news, which presents the latest news for children aged 9 and over every week, or “0630“, where the presenters summarize the most important news from around the world every morning in a concise, informative and understandable way for young people aged 14 and over.

You can find more tips for podcasts for young people at Webhelm and the city magazine Känguru.

The “Games in the family” offer – Educational assessments of popular video games

Children and young people are enthusiastic about mobile, computer and console games on platforms such as Xbox, PC, Playstation or Nintendo Switch. The “Games in the family” information service from the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) offers educational assessments of popular games and helps parents keep track of them.

In a nutshell:

  • Educational assessments of popular games for children and young people
  • Assessments of game content, learning potential and risks
  • Parents’ guide with tips on media education
  • Free of charge, without advertising, independent and publicly financed (bpb)
  • With accompanying offers such as parents’ evenings (parents’ LAN)

What does “Games in the family” offer?

The offer includes a selection of game reviews – from particularly popular titles to games with a learning effect. In addition to the game description, the reviews also contain information on genre, game mode (e.g. single or multiplayer), playing time, recommended age group and supported platforms. This makes it easier for parents to assess whether a game is suitable for their everyday family life. In addition, each review provides an educational assessment that highlights learning objectives and potential risks such as violent content or an excessive reward system.

In addition to the game ratings, “Games in the Family” offers a compact parents’ guide that answers questions about the everyday use of media and video games. For example:

  • What should be considered when choosing video games?
  • How can playtimes with children be arranged?
  • At what point are certain gambling habits questionable?

An extensive glossary also explains important terms from the gaming world – from “loot boxes” to “open world”.

Is “Games in the family” also something for children and young people?

Young people can find out about current games and thus better assess for themselves which game is suitable for their age. This promotes their media skills and helps them to reflect on their own gaming preferences.

What should parents pay attention to?

The educational assessments of the bpbdiffersignificantly in some cases from the age ratings of the USK. While the USK looks at content risks (e.g. violence or scary moments) and usage risks (e.g. chats or in-game purchases) on the basis of the German Youth Protection Act, the bpb takes into account factors such as game depth, emotional impact and understanding of age.

A game can be approved by the USK from the age of 6, but only be recommended by the bpb from the age of 12, for example because it contains complex content or online interactions.

Ideally, take several factors into account when choosing a game. Every child develops individually and reacts differently. Get different opinions, talk to other parents and try out games yourself if possible. Accompany your child in everyday play, talk about game content – and listen to why a game fascinates.

Don’t ban digital games outright, explain your concerns. This will help your child understand why they are not (yet) allowed to play a certain game.

The bpb offers a supplementary event format with the Parents’ LAN: parents’ evenings, which usually take place from 7.20 p.m. to 10 p.m., where adults can play games themselves to learn about the fascination and challenges of digital games. With pedagogical support, we discuss how media education can succeed – also in dialog with children.

Further information

In addition to the “Games in the family” service, it is also worth taking a look at the NRW games guide, a comprehensive information portal for the educational evaluation of digital games. It is also aimed at parents, professionals and young people and is compiled by media educators together with young players.

Are you looking for spielbar.de?

The former website www.spielbar.de was integrated into the website of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) at the beginning of 2025. Content that was previously available on Spielbar is now part of ” Games in the family“. The new service offers a better overview, an improved search function and new formats – such as video reviews. Anyone who wants to use games specifically in schools or political education will also find the new ” Games for political education“.

Young people and their media role models

Whether in series and manga, in video games and social media or in the world of celebrities – young people encounter figures and characters everywhere that inspire them. Whether superheroes like Spider Man, game characters like Ahri, anime characters like Levi Ackerman or stars like Billie Eilish – teenagers regard a wide variety of media figures as their role models and look up to them.

What media role models mean for young people

Do you remember how enthusiastically your child told you about his favorite characters from movies and television a few years ago? From an early age, children are guided by their favorite media characters. Young people also look for role models not only in their immediate environment of family, friends or clubs, but increasingly in the media offerings they use.

Forming one’s own identity is one of the most important tasks in adolescence. Media content and characters take on important functions for young people. In this way, media role models can help people develop their own values. They can not only offer young people orientation and support, but even inspire them to try out and experiment with different identities and roles. It is character traits such as courage, honesty, loyalty, sincerity and perseverance that go down particularly well with young people. But they are also fascinated by characters who are particularly funny or original or who pursue big goals.

It is particularly important for teenagers to share information about their media idols, which creates a sense of community. Often, clothing, (youth) language or hobbies, but also media use itself, show which media role models they feel close to. Youth cultures, such as e-boys and e-girls, are popular among young people, and by belonging to such currents they also distinguish themselves from one another within their peer group.

What media role models are there?

In addition to a large number of fictional characters from films, series, games and books, real people from the media world also inspire young people. These can be celebrities from the film and music industry or social media stars. With this variety of media figures, it can happen that one loses the overview. Here are a few examples:

  • Celebrities from show and sports business such as Ariana Grande, Cristiano Ronaldo and Giulia Gwinn are important figures that young people look up to and emulate. YouTube stars such as Julien Bam, Gronkh and Shirin David are also very popular with young people. As influencers in particular, stars offer a high potential for identification and allow their followers to actively participate in their lives. This supposed closeness can lead to your child seeing them as their ‘best friend’ or ‘big sister’
  • On social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and the like, young people can find media role models who match their interests perfectly. Well-known fitness influencers include Sophia Thiel and Laura Sophie, while in the lifestyle sector, young people can meet Julienco and the twins Lisa and Lena, among others. When it comes to fashion, they follow Madeleine Darya Alizadeh (Dariadaria) and Helge Mark, among others, and if they are interested in make-up tips and skincare, beauty influencers such as Paula Wolf and Maxim Giacomo are interesting. LukasBS and Pandorya, on the other hand, are well-known Let’s Players and Jasmin Gnu is another increasingly diverse figure in the gaming scene. More and more influencers, so-called meaning influencers, are addressing socially relevant topics online on their channels. In Germany, Luisa Neubauer is particularly well known for her environmental content and Rezo for his political content. If you love DIYs, you might find Easy Alex or Linda Seel to be role models. Sometimes young people just want to pass the time. Some influencers offer the best entertainment on their channels – often without committing to a specific topic.
  • There are heroes, like those from the Marvel universe, who save the world together or alone. Various characters, such as Spider Man, Iron Man, Black Widow, Thor and Hulk come together and form “The Avengers” (in German: die Rächer) together with many other characters to protect the universe.
  • The Harry Potter universe is still very popular today. Whether the novels or the films – the characters still enchant young people today. In addition to Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, new characters such as Newt Scamander and Jacob Kowalski have been introduced in the Fantastic Beasts series of films, creating excitement on the big screen.
  • Anime are Japanese animated series that many young people are passionate about. Here, heroes from other worlds fight demons and monsters to protect people. Well-known characters include Tanjiro, Zenitsu and Nezuko from Demon Slayer or Satoru Gojo and Yuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen.

What should parents pay attention to?

Parents don’t have to like their children’s media idols. Nevertheless, talk to your child about their media heroes. Ask which of their character traits your child particularly likes.

Media also feature figures who are not well suited as role models. They may model problematic behaviors or teach questionable values. Sometimes they reproduce stereotypical gender images, prejudices or clichés that result in a false or incomplete worldview. Media role models play an important role in forming political opinions, but they do not always live up to their responsibility. Young people are particularly susceptible to populism, extremism and disinformation during the orientation phase. This is especially true when such content comes from their favorite influencers. The role model function of internet stars can also become questionable in connection with advertising. For example, when popular influencers promote products, this can sometimes be done indirectly or covertly.

Talk to your child about critical behaviors and clarify stereotypes. Remain neutral and unbiased when asking questions and engage with their world of media role models. Maybe it helps if you remember your own youth and your idols. How did you feel at that time?

Virtual parents’ evening on 19.05.2025 from 5 to 6 pm

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:

    Hiermit melde ich mich zum virtuellen Elternabend von Elternguide.online am 19.05.2025 um 17.00 Uhr verbindlich an.

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    “Fake news”, conspiracy myths and disinformation – what does that actually mean?

    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”.

    Dealing with “fake news”, disinformation and false reports on the internet

    Whether in social media feeds, messengers or podcasts – we are flooded with countless messages, reports and stories online every day. Sometimes it is not so easy to distinguish between truth and deception. Teaching children and young people how to recognize false information on the internet is a real challenge. This article offers practical advice on this and explains how you can talk to your child about it.

    Fake news, disinformation and false reports – the difference

    • False reports are mistakes in news that happen unintentionally. Internet users can also inadvertently publish misinformation. They are often corrected later.
    • Disinformation means that false information is deliberately spread in order to manipulate and mislead people.
    • “Fake news” is a colloquial term for disinformation and refers to deliberately falsified news. It is also used politically to devalue unpopular opinions or traditional media and sow doubt.

    Why is “fake news” dangerous?

    Fake news spreads particularly quickly in uncertain times. We humans are already unsettled and even experts and politicians don’t have all the answers – such as during the coronavirus crisis or wars. “Fake news” deliberately spreads rumors or even hateful reports that are intended to stir up fears and deliberately deceive us. They often offer simple explanations and can give the feeling of security. But they are not true.

    These fake news items are often so cleverly crafted that they appear to be legitimate news at first glance. People who believe “fake news” share it further, so that more and more people fall for it. The problem with this is that the more often such content is clicked on, the more often it is displayed – and the more people believe it to be true. This can be problematic, especially when it comes to political posts with an extremist or populist background or when conspiracy myths are spread.

    Content that can unsettle or frighten younger children in particular is also problematic. Deep fake videos in particular look deceptively real. It is therefore important to understand that not all information on the Internet is true and to know the differences between disinformation, false reports and satire.

    How you can check messages

    Recognizing whether it is actually disinformation or false reports can be a tricky task. Therefore, it is helpful to follow clear steps to curb the spread of disinformation:

    Source verification

    Check where the message came from and who wrote it. Are the authors well-known and experts on the topic? Is it a reputable website?

    Fact check

    Try to verify the message with different sources. Ask yourself how up-to-date the information is and check where the figures and data mentioned come from as well as the context in which they were collected.

    Checking the message form

    Pay attention to the way the message is presented. Is the language serious and factual, or is emotional language and excessive capitalization used? Does the article contain catchwords such as “lying press” or similar provocative terms? Could the article be meant satirically?

    Verify evidence

    Make sure photos and videos match the message and are up-to-date. Pay attention to captions and whether they actually represent what is being described or are from another context.

    Joint fact check

    Discuss news and messages together as a family. Your child should understand that not everything on the internet can be sent via WhatsApp or comes from an AI chatbot has to be true. If you check messages together, it can gradually learn to distinguish true from false. Ask for your child’s opinion and share your own thoughts. This way, you and your child can be safer and better prepared to recognize and counteract false information on the Internet.

    More tips

    Here are some tips on where you can check messages and how you and your child can learn how to use them in a fun way:

    Protection of minors online – The role of the German Association for Voluntary Self-Regulation of Digital Media Service Providers (FSM)

    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

    Computer games against extremism

    Computer games offer children and young people lots of entertainment, enable social contact and can even help with learning. However, there are also dangers in virtual worlds, such as disinformation and extremist speech. At the same time, games also offer opportunities to live a culture of remembrance, teach democratic values and counter extremism. In this article, you will find out what you should look out for as a parent and how you can use computer games sensibly.

    How extremism can occur in games

    Many online games thrive on interactivity and exchange with other players. As in other social spaces, there are also challenges here. Extremist groups also use games and gaming communities specifically to influence young people. This can happen in different ways:

    • Hidden messages: Extremist ideologies can be conveyed through certain symbols, language or narratives in games.
    • Targeted speeches: Extremists are looking for communication platforms for gamers such as Discord to specifically target young people in order to manipulate them.
    • Special games with radical content: There are games that have been specifically developed to spread extremist ideologies and indoctrinate children and young people.

    You can read more about extremism in online games in this parents’ guide article.

    Protection through age ratings

    The Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body(USK) tests games and assigns age ratings. Among other things, attention is paid to how extremist symbols are handled. Unconstitutional symbols such as swastikas are prohibited under the German Criminal Code. They may only be shown under certain conditions, e.g. in a critical examination of history. During the review, the USK pays attention to the relationship between good and evil in the game, the historical context and the classification of the events and whether extremist symbols are only used decoratively or critically reflected.

    Culture of remembrance and games

    Games can be a valuable means of bringing history to life and sensitizing young people to the dangers of extremist ideologies. Serious games in particular – i.e. games with an educational mission – can contribute to this. They impart knowledge and actively involve players in solving problems. In serious games, players are very involved, find themselves in the middle of the story and have to act as those affected. This teaches them about the risks of extremism and what has threatened people in the past.

    Examples of such serious games are

    • Traces on paper: The game focuses on the Nazi murders of the sick and invites you to confront this dark chapter of history.
    • Through the Darkest of Times: Here, players are transported back to the time of National Socialism and experience how resistance was put up.
    • The Children of Bullenhuser Damm: The game tells the story of children on whom medical experiments were carried out during the Third Reich.

    Such games tell history interactively and promote an understanding of historical contexts. You can find a database of remembrance culture games on the website of the Digital Games Culture Foundation

    Preventing extremism through gaming

    Not only specially developed educational games, but also well-known entertainment games can be used to critically scrutinize extremist content. So-called “serious gaming” means that games that were not originally intended for this purpose are used for educational purposes. One example is Call of Duty: WWII, where the crimes of the Nazis are realistically depicted in one chapter.

    There are also games that deal with radicalization, for example:

    • Hidden CodesThe game shows how extremist groups appeal to young people and what strategies they use.
    • Tell Me Why: The game addresses identity issues and promotes empathy for discriminated groups.

    So-called “cozy games”, such as Stardew Valley or Venba, do not deal with the topic, but offer relaxed gaming experiences in positive, supportive worlds and can help young players to develop a healthy world view.

    What parents can do

    As a parent, you have an important role to play when it comes to guiding your child in their use of games and protecting them from extremist content. Here are some tips:

    • Find out about the games your child uses. Ask what your child experiences in the games and show an open interest.
    • Play along! Playing together strengthens the relationship and gives you an insight into the content.
    • The USK checks whether extremist symbols are used in games in an appropriate and justifiable context. Observe the USK age rating and the additional information such as pressure to act, violence, frightening moments. Observe how your child deals with this.
    • Educate your child about disinformation and practise with your child how to deal critically with information.
    • Use technical protective measures. For example, restrict contact options and explain to your child how they can block contacts and report suspicious content.
    • Pay attention to which online communities your child is active in. Extremists use social networks and gaming platforms to influence young people.

    If you find your child’s behaviour conspicuous or are worried about your child, contact advice centres for parents and young people and find out more about radicalization on the internet on platforms such as ZEBRA. You can find out more about preventing extremism in the gaming sector in the Amadeu Antonio Foundation’s brochure “Gaming against right-wing extremism”.

    Reading in the age of social media

    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.

    Coding for kids – learning to program is fun!

    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.

    Seitenstark – in search of inspiration

    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.

    Rules for media use in the family

    “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

    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.

    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.

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