The other day, I watched my kids discuss building an underground Minecraft bunker, debating the merits of obsidian versus bedrock. As I listened, my mind drifted back to Mr. Loney’s typing class circa 1988. I vividly remember sitting in Grade 9, learning to use an electronic typewriter—keys covered with masking tape to enforce proper form—and struggling with corrective tape whenever I made an error. Back then, typing was the skill being explicitly taught, and eighth grade was my first real exposure to a keyboard. Fast-forward 36 years, my boys were swiping screens before they could tie their shoes.

Today, kids aren’t just typing—they’re searching, connecting with friends near and far, and building elaborate Minecraft worlds together. The tools at their fingertips are remarkably formidable, allowing them to create and connect in ways I never could and in ways my teenage self could not imagine. But with this incredible access comes the ease of sharing personal details, sometimes without even realizing it. The internet offers fantastic opportunities for learning and connection, but it’s also a place where privacy can quietly slip away.

Here’s the thing: while I was wrestling with that corrective tape in ninth grade, the worst privacy breach I could suffer was someone reading my passed notes in class. Today, my seven-year-old can accidentally share our home server address with strangers in a Minecraft chat, or my older son might access and reveal too much in an online chat. It’s enough to keep any parent up at night.

I’ll admit, I’ve used screens as a modern pacifier when life gets hectic. But as parents, it’s up to us to guide our children through this complex digital world. Keeping the lines of communication open about what they’re doing online can make a big difference. Taking the time to chat about the apps they’re using, the games they’re playing, and who they’re interacting with can lead to meaningful discussions about what’s okay to share and what should stay private.

Familiarizing yourself with the privacy settings on their devices and apps is another critical step. Many platforms allow you to control who sees their information and what data is collected. Adjusting these settings together enhances their privacy and teaches them to manage their digital footprints—something I never had to consider back in my typewriter days.

Encouraging them to think critically about the information they encounter online is essential. Kids are naturally curious and might not realize when someone is trying to gather their personal details. Teaching them to be cautious about quizzes that ask for personal info or messages from people they don’t know can help them avoid common traps that compromise privacy.

And let’s not forget the power of leading by example. Our children watch what we do more than they listen to what we say. By being mindful of our own online habits—like thinking twice before we post or explaining why we choose certain privacy settings—we can set a positive example for them to follow.

Protecting our kids online doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With open dialogue, a bit of education, and some practical steps, we can help them enjoy all the wonders the internet offers while keeping their personal information safe. It’s a learning journey for all of us, bridging the gap between the simplicity of typewriters and the complexities of today’s digital world. And it’s absolutely worth the effort to ensure our children can explore the digital landscape securely.