National PTA survey reveals parental concerns on internet safety for children

National PTA has released findings from a national survey in the USA and listening sessions that examined parents' views on internet and digital media use among children.

 Conducted by Edge Research, the study involved parents and guardians of K-12 public school students and coincides with the five-year anniversary of the PTA Connected initiative.

Key Findings on Internet and Digital Media Use

The survey revealed that while parents acknowledge the benefits of the internet, they are also wary of its potential risks. This ambivalence is central to how parents approach online safety for their children.

Middle school is identified as a critical period for increased access to social media and digital platforms. Despite this, many parents allow significant digital interaction for children in elementary school or younger. By high school, parental monitoring of online activities diminishes considerably.

The survey indicates that 71% of parents trust their children to make good decisions online, but only 35% trust other children interacting with their own child. Additionally, 63% believe that it is too easy for teens and tweens to bypass parental controls.

Internet Safety and Well-being

Concerns about online safety are prevalent, with 65% of parents worrying about their child's safety online and 60% concerned about the impact of technology on their child's well-being. These issues rank higher than concerns about stress, anxiety, or academic performance.

Parents are particularly worried about their children communicating with unknown adults online, with 57% expressing this concern. Common online activities among children include watching videos (86%), TV (73%), and gaming (65%).

To manage their children's internet use, 65% of parents talk to their children about online activities, and 51% set screen time limits. However, only 47% of parents with high school students monitor online activities closely.

The survey suggests parents may not fully understand their children's online behaviour. While only 7-8% of parents believe their children have made plans to meet someone they met online, 50% of teens and tweens reported they would likely meet online friends in person. Moreover, nearly 30% of teens and tweens consider online acquaintances as friends.

Need for Guidance and Support

Although 89% of parents feel responsible for their child's online safety, 60% expressed a need for guidance. This need is particularly noted among parents of younger children, with 64% seeking support. Schools, counsellors, and teachers are seen as primary sources for this guidance.

"Children and youth are increasingly online, and while the internet is a space for fostering learning, creativity, and community, it also presents unique risks," said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA. "The findings of our survey demonstrate that parents are grappling with the benefits and risks of the internet and digital media."

Nathan R. Monell, executive director of National PTA, stated: 

"These findings provide valuable insight into parents' concerns and perspectives around the internet and digital media and as our association looks ahead to where we go in the next five years with our PTA Connected initiative.

“National PTA remains committed to making sure families' voices and perspectives are heard and included and to providing the knowledge, tools and resources families need to make the best decisions for their children. And we are committed to helping children act safely, responsibly and thoughtfully online to create a kinder, more inclusive online community for all."