Ah, back to school season! The time when freshly sharpened pencils, new backpacks, and the eternal hope of a better algebra grade mingle in the air. But while you’re busy stocking up on notebooks, why not add a little digital safety lesson into the mix? And who says learning can’t be fun? Let’s turn this into a Parent vs. Kids Cyber Showdown! Because really, who knows more about online safety: the experienced but perhaps slightly tech-challenged parents, or the seemingly tech-savvy kids?

Here’s how to get started on this friendly (and slightly competitive) journey toward online safety enlightenment:

Step 1: Set the Scene with Cell Phone Rules

Kickstart your cyber challenge with a family meeting to set some ground rules for cell phone use. Channel your inner game show host and make it interactive! Have everyone list out what personal info should never be shared in group chats or posted online. Bonus points for creativity – the more absurd the reasoning for why sharing your pet goldfish’s name could be dangerous, the better!

Step 2: Dive into a Digital Detective Race

It’s time to put those sneaky skills to the test! Set a timer and see who can find a phishing text message the fastest. Extra kudos for anyone who can spot two signs of a scam – like suspicious links or that classic “urgent action required” line. Nothing says family bonding like a little scam-spotting sprint!

Step 3: Password Power Hour

Gather around the dinner table for a lightning round of security questions. How long should passwords be? (Spoiler: longer than your grocery list.) What’s multi-factor authentication? (Hint: it’s not a new dance move.) This is where parents can shine with their vast knowledge of online account protection, while kids show off their quick thinking.

Step 4: Embrace Mistakes with a Side of Humility

Everyone makes mistakes, even online. Share some of your digital mishaps – whether it’s falling for a scam or accidentally posting something embarrassing. Let the kids guess which stories are true, then have them suggest how to make better choices next time. It’s like two truths and a lie, but with life lessons!

Step 5: Share the Knowledge

Don’t let the fun stop at home! Order free copies of “Heads Up: Stop. Think. Connect.” to keep the conversation going with other parents. Who knows, maybe you’ll start a neighborhood trend!

Remember, the goal is to make learning about online safety as fun and engaging as possible. After all, who doesn’t love a little competition, especially when it’s for a good cause?

For even more ideas and resources, check out the original article at ftc.gov/kidsonline.

Original article: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/08/parents-versus-kids-challenge-who-knows-more-about-protecting-personal-information