#United States #Tempe #Norton #Cyberbullying #AI Friends

Childhood 2.0: The Digital Playground of Today

Understanding the Shift in Online Interaction

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, a recent report by Norton, a leader in Cyber Safety, has shed light on the significant challenges parents face regarding their children's online interactions. The 2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report Connected Kids indicates that nearly one in four parents—24%—believe their children have fallen victim to cyberbullying. Alarmingly, 41% of parents disclosed that their children frequently turn to artificial intelligence (AI) for emotional companionship.

With the digital world becoming a playground for both social interaction and potential dangers, it’s crucial for parents to understand this shift, especially with many children accessing devices at an increasingly young age. Kids often start using tablets as young as two years old and typically receive their first smartphones by the age of twelve. This trend is leading families through uncharted waters, making it imperative for parents to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge necessary to safeguard their children online.

Unpacking the Cyberbullying Crisis

The report uncovers that a staggering 54% of children affected by cyberbullying identify their aggressors as classmates or peers, suggesting that harassment extends beyond the schoolyard and into the digital realm. The primary platforms where cyberbullying occurs are social media sites, with Facebook leading at 52%, followed by YouTube at 46%, Instagram at 45%, Snapchat at 40%, and TikTok at 37%. Yet, social media isn't the sole battleground; parents also reported that 39% of cyberbullying occurs through text messages.

Despite the grim findings, there remains a silver lining. Almost half of the victims—48%—sought help regarding negative online experiences. However, managing screen time proves challenging for parents; while 86% attempt to impose limits, 56% of children have found ways to circumvent these controls. Furthermore, risky online behaviors reported by parents paint a concerning picture: 30% of children access devices after bedtime, 25% visit blocked sites, and 21% view explicit content, with 9% even participating in cyberbullying.

The Rise of AI Companionship

An important aspect highlighted by the Norton report is children’s growing reliance on AI for companionship. With 41% of parents acknowledging their children's usage of AI for emotional support and 46% stating their kids engage with AI tools like ChatGPT, the implications are profound. While many parents appreciate the educational and creative benefits AI offers, there are substantial concerns about the unintentional consequences of this growing dependency. Interestingly, the report noted that fathers perceive AI's advantages more favorably than mothers, with a 19% difference in perception.

As AI technologies continue to permeate daily life, it becomes increasingly important to grasp their potential benefits and challenges. To ensure that future generations can navigate this digital landscape responsibly, educational institutions must prioritize equipping students with skills to become tech-savvy and resilient against cyber threats. Catherine Dunlop, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at Discovery Education, emphasizes the necessity of fostering digital literacy.

Proactive Steps for Safer Digital Experiences

To confront these pressing issues, the Norton report provides several proactive measures for parents to consider:
1. Initiate Early Conversations: Parents should engage in discussions about online behavior and safety from the moment their children start using digital devices. Tools like The Smart Talk can facilitate these conversations.
2. Utilize Parental Control Tools: Make use of built-in device settings and recognized parental control platforms to set boundaries around screen time and inappropriate content.
3. Educate on Warning Signs: Teach children how to recognize signs of cyberbullying, potential scams, and unsafe online interactions, encouraging them to approach trusted adults when unsure.
4. Model Positive Tech Usage: By demonstrating constructive device usage, adults set an example. Dedicating time to family interactions without screens fosters a healthy tech environment.
5. Stay Engaged and Curious: Regularly check in with children about their online activities. Engagement in discussions about the latest trends in technology helps maintain an open line of communication.

In summary, as children become more integrated into the digital realm, the findings from the Norton report underline an essential call for parents to remain vigilant. They must arm themselves with the necessary resources to protect their children from emerging threats like cyberbullying while also being mindful of the effects of AI in their daily lives. The need for informed, proactive parenting has never been more critical in this journey through the digital landscape.

For a deeper dive into the complete findings of the 2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report Connected Kids, visit Norton’s newsroom.

About Norton

Norton, part of Gen (NASDAQ: GEN), is a frontrunner in Cyber Safety, committed to empowering millions with protection for their devices, privacy, and identity. Bringing awareness to digital safety is vital as we work together to create informed, connected families.