Safer Internet Day on 10 February 2026 is a global reminder that the internet can be a powerful tool when it is used thoughtfully and with care. For families especially, building healthy digital habits early helps children feel confident and supported as they navigate online spaces.
Online safety is not about fear or restriction. It is about guidance, shared expectations, and giving young people the tools they need to make good choices as they grow.
Start with Shared Experiences
One of the simplest ways to support online safety is to stay involved. Watching videos together, exploring apps as a family, or talking about what your child enjoys online opens the door to ongoing conversations. When children know they can ask questions or share concerns without judgment, they’re more likely to come to you when something feels confusing or uncomfortable.
Talking about online content doesn’t have to be formal. Simple questions like “What do you like about this?” or “How did that make you feel?” can help build critical thinking skills and emotional awareness.
Choose Content with Care
Age-appropriate content matters, especially for younger children. Look for apps, games, and videos designed to support learning, creativity, and positive play. Slower-paced content, clear storytelling, and opportunities for interaction can help children stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.
It’s also helpful to balance screen time with offline activities. Reading, imaginative play, and outdoor time all support healthy development and give kids a chance to recharge away from screens.
Talk About Kindness and Respect Online
Good digital citizenship starts with empathy. Conversations about being kind, respectful, and thoughtful online are just as important as discussions about safety. Remind children that real people exist behind screens, and that words and actions online can have lasting impacts.
Encouraging kids to pause before posting, to think critically about what they see, and to ask for help if something doesn’t feel right all contribute to a healthier online environment for everyone.
Explore Trusted Resources Through the ORL
The ORL offers books and digital resources that support families in navigating online safety, media literacy, and healthy screen use.
ORL Online Resources for Children and Youth
Britannica Library – Children
Designed for curious young learners, Britannica Library for Children offers trusted, age-appropriate articles, images, and videos on a wide range of topics. It’s a reliable place to explore school projects, discover new interests, and build research confidence.
Britannica Library – Young Adults
Britannica Library for Young Adults provides in-depth, credible content tailored to teens and older students. With articles, primary sources, and multimedia features, it supports research skills, critical thinking, and independent learning.
TumbleBook Library
TumbleBook Library brings stories to life with animated, narrated picture books and read-along chapter titles. It’s a welcoming way for children to enjoy stories independently or for families to share reading time together.
Kermode Education
Kermode Education offers interactive lessons, videos, and activities that support classroom learning across a range of subjects. It is a helpful resource for reinforcing concepts, exploring new topics, and supporting learning at home.
ORL Books Exploring Online Safety
A Kids Book About Online Safety
(Be Smart About) Screen Time! Stay Grounded, Set Boundaries, and Keep Safe Online
A Garfield Guide to Online Friends
Safer Internet Day invites families to revisit how they talk about online use and digital responsibility. Ongoing conversations and shared understanding help young people navigate the online world with confidence and care.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127 or email help@orl.bc.ca. Please include as many details as you can about your question, account, or device. This helps us support you more quickly and accurately. Library card expired? Reach out to your local branch or contact us online to renew—it’s quick and easy.
