Newsletter #5 Overview: Internet Usage Among Children & Teens
- John O'Maley
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 21
Parents Protecting Children: strongerfamiliesonline.org
Newsletter #5 Overview – Internet Usage Among Children & Teens
PART 1: THE ALARMING FACTS
The internet is an integral part of our children’s lives, but alarming data shows it also brings serious risks. Parents, it’s critical to be aware of these dangers & take action to protect your kids.
The Eye-Opening Reality of Kids Online
Universal Connectivity: By 2021, 97% of U.S. kids (ages 3–18) had internet access at home. Even kids as young as 3–4 years old are using devices like smartphones & tablets.
Unprecedented Screen Time: Kids are spending more time online than ever. Tweens (8–12 years) average 5.5 hours daily on-screen media, while teens (13–18 years) spend 8.5 hours a day. This usage has skyrocketed since the pandemic.
Social Media Early Adoption: Despite age restrictions, 40% of tweens (8–12 years old) use social media, often by falsifying their age.
The Major Online Risks Facing Kids
Cyberbullying
Nearly 46% of teens (ages 13–17) & 20.9% of tweens (ages 9–12) experience cyberbullying or witness it. The mental health impact is severe, with victims suffering anxiety, depression, & lower self-esteem. Reports indicate cyberbullying peaked during the pandemic.
Online Predators
Around 1 in 10 teens & tweens encounter predatory behavior, including grooming & exploitation. Predators often target ages 12–15, posing as peers or using manipulative tactics to gain trust.
Exposure to Harmful Content
A staggering 69% of tweens & 90% of teens encounter sexual or explicit content online—many as early as age 10. Violent imagery, hate speech, & harmful behaviors (like self-harm or eating disorders) are also pervasive & have long-term psychological impacts on children.
Data Privacy Risks
Millions of kids have their personal data compromised annually. Breaches can expose sensitive information like Social Security numbers, risking identity theft. Children often overshare online, with 40% willingly disabling privacy settings without understanding the consequences.
Why Parents Must Act
The consequences of these online risks are far-reaching, impacting kids’ mental health, academic performance, & future security. From cyberbullying leading to self-esteem problems & depression to privacy breaches jeopardizing a child’s financial future, the dangers are real & severe. By understanding these dangers, parents can take steps to monitor & guide their children’s online activities. Your involvement can make a critical difference in ensuring their safety & well-being.
For access to all details and sources used in researching Internet Usage Among Children & Teens, click this link:
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this newsletter, where we’ll outline actionable strategies for protecting your kids online. Together, we can help them explore the digital world safely.
Deacon John O'Maley
Founder
Parents Protecting Children, Inc.

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