top of page

How to teach cybersecurity to kids: Tips and resources

Ryan H

Updated: Mar 13, 2023

Everything is digital today so it's important for kids to learn about cybersecurity. Our children must understand how to stay secure online given the rise of cyberthreats like hacking, identity theft, and cyberbullying. However, teaching cybersecurity to kids can be challenging. Allow me to provide some tips and resources on how to teach cybersecurity to kids in a way that's engaging and understandable.


Tips for teaching cybersecurity to kids:

  1. Start with the basics: It's crucial, to begin with, the fundamentals when instructing children in cybersecurity. This includes topics such as password safety, not sharing personal information online, and being cautious of suspicious links and emails.

  2. Use real-world examples: Children learn best when they can relate what they are learning to actual circumstances. Use cyberattack instances to show the need for cybersecurity and how they might have been avoided.

  3. Make it interactive: Kids learn best when they're engaged and having fun. Incorporate games, quizzes, and other interactive activities to help teach cybersecurity in a way that's both informative and entertaining.

  4. Encourage open communication: Encourage children to come to you or another reliable adult if they find anything online that makes them feel uneasy or if they have any questions. This will help them feel more comfortable talking to you about potential cybersecurity threats.

  5. Lead by example: Kids learn from the behavior of the adults around them. Make sure you're practicing good cybersecurity habits yourself, such as using strong passwords and being cautious when clicking on links.

Resources for teaching cybersecurity to kids:

  1. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): CISA has a variety of resources for teaching cybersecurity to kids of all ages, including online games and educational materials.

  2. National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCSA): The NCSA has resources for parents and educators to help teach kids about online safety and cybersecurity.

  3. Common Sense Media: Common Sense Media has resources for parents and educators, including lesson plans and online safety tips.

  4. Google's Be Internet Awesome: Be Internet Awesome is an interactive game developed by Google that teaches kids about online safety and digital citizenship.

Teaching cybersecurity to kids is important in today's digital age. By starting with the basics, using real-world examples, making it interactive, encouraging open communication, and leading by example, kids can learn how to stay safe online. Additionally, there are a variety of resources available, such as those provided by CISA, NCSA, Common Sense Media, and Google's Be Internet Awesome, that can help make teaching cybersecurity to kids both engaging and effective.

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page