An evening with an expert

Year 7 Students

About Yasmin London

Yasmin London is a communication powerhouse igniting social change through education and courageous conversations.
 
In her current role as Global Director of Digital Resilience at Qoria, Yasmin empowers young people, school communities, parents & guardians on the ways they can utilise technology for good, and the promotion and enhancement of positive digital wellbeing and online safety for all Australians.
 
Her dynamic background as a World Champion Athlete and Police Officer are the backbone of Yasmin’s growth mindset and resilience. They serve as invaluable experiences that positively influence her day-to-day achievements as an online safety advocate.
 
Yasmin is also the mother of two young girls, solidifying her dedication to the nurturing of a generation of digitally resilient and empowered youth. Yasmin’s extensive experience, passion and commitment have touched the lives of countless individuals and organisations, making her an exceptional force driving positive change.

Every child deserves to thrive in their digital life.

Tools for parents and caregivers

Protecting young people in the digital world is an ongoing priority for Australian families. Today, more than ever, parents seek guidance on managing screen time, addressing negative online encounters, misinformation, online predation and navigating gaming and social media landscapes.

As your child commences Year 7, they will be given access to devices that assist them with their studies. They may also be at the age where you choose to give them their own device, such as a phone, ipad or computer.

While these devices are now part of everyday life, there is a lot to learn as a parent to ensure your child understands the risks as well as the benefits of being connected online. Start off on the right foot, by educating yourself so that you can support your child.

The downloadable guide, ‘101 Ways to Build Digital Resilience with Tweens and Teens’ provides not only a list of things that you should be aware of, but also includes links to sites and platforms that have in-depth information that may assist you in your understanding of the digital world and how you can support your Year 7 child.

Having open conversations with your child about the online world will ensure that whatever happens, they know they can come and talk to you.

Social Media Trends

Social media is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial for parents to stay informed about the latest trends to help guide their children safely through the digital world. One of the most significant trends is the rise of short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. These platforms are particularly popular among younger generations, with kids and teens spending increasing amounts of time creating, sharing, and consuming content. While these apps can be fun and creative, they also come with risks, including exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and privacy concerns. Parents should be aware of the privacy settings on these platforms and engage in open conversations with their children about responsible use.

Another emerging trend is the popularity of “influencers” and social media challenges. Many kids look up to influencers as role models, but not all influencers promote positive or realistic values. Some viral challenges can also encourage risky behaviour. It’s important for parents to discuss with their kids how to critically evaluate the content they consume and the potential consequences of participating in trends that may seem harmless but can lead to real-life dangers. Staying proactive and curious about what kids are watching and engaging with online can help foster a safer and more balanced social media experience.

Managing Toxic Online Behaviours

Toxic online behaviours, such as cyberbullying, trolling, and harassment, are unfortunately common in the digital world, and it’s essential for parents to be aware of how they can impact their children. These behaviours can range from hurtful comments to more aggressive forms of harassment, and they can take place across social media platforms, gaming communities, and messaging apps. Parents should talk to their kids about the importance of online kindness and respect, as well as the steps they can take if they encounter toxic behaviour, such as blocking or reporting the offender. Regular conversations about their online interactions can also help parents spot any warning signs that their child may be experiencing or engaging in such behaviour.

Another key aspect is helping children build resilience and understand that not everything they encounter online reflects reality. Social media can amplify negative emotions, and children may struggle with self-esteem when exposed to trolling or unkind comments. Encourage them to step back from toxic environments and remind them that they have control over their digital space. Teaching kids how to use online tools to manage toxic behaviour—such as adjusting privacy settings, muting toxic conversations, and setting boundaries on who can interact with them—empowers them to handle these challenges and maintain a healthier online experience.

Dealing With Explicit & Inappropriate Content

Dealing with explicit and inappropriate content online is one of the biggest concerns for parents today. With the vast amount of information accessible on the internet, kids can sometimes stumble upon or even be targeted by content that is not age-appropriate, whether it’s violence, sexual material, or graphic images. Parents should be proactive in setting up filters and parental controls on devices and apps to limit exposure to such content. However, it’s also important to recognise that no filter is foolproof, and kids may still come across disturbing material. Creating an open and non-judgmental environment where children feel comfortable discussing what they’ve seen is key to helping them process and navigate these experiences.

It’s equally essential to teach kids how to recognise and respond to inappropriate content. Encourage them to avoid clicking on suspicious links, to report any disturbing images or messages, and to understand that not everything online is meant for them. By discussing the potential risks in a calm, supportive way, parents can equip their children with the tools they need to make safer choices and know when to seek help if something doesn’t feel right. The goal isn’t to scare kids away from the internet but to empower them to navigate it responsibly.

Image-Based Abuse, Sexting and the Law

Online image-based abuse and sexting are serious issues that parents need to be aware of, particularly given the widespread use of social media and messaging apps. Image-based abuse involves the sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent, and it can have devastating emotional and psychological effects on victims. Sexting, or sending sexually explicit messages or images, is also becoming more common, especially among adolescents, and many young people may not fully understand the potential risks involved. Parents should have open, honest conversations with their kids about the importance of consent, privacy, and the long-term consequences of sharing personal images online.

It’s also crucial for parents to know the legal implications of these behaviours. Sharing or even possessing intimate images of minors, including self-produced content, is illegal and can lead to criminal charges. Young people may not realise that what seems like harmless flirting or a private exchange can lead to serious legal consequences if those images are shared without consent or fall into the wrong hands. Educating kids about these laws, as well as the emotional impact of image-based abuse, can help them make more informed choices and avoid situations that could have lasting repercussions. By fostering a supportive environment, parents can empower their children to protect themselves and their privacy online.

Screentime

For Year 7 students, screen time is a common concern for parents, especially as children become more independent and use devices for both schoolwork and social activities. Striking the right balance is key. Too much screen time, especially when not related to education, can lead to issues like poor sleep, reduced physical activity, and difficulty focusing. It’s important for parents to set clear boundaries around screen use, ensuring that screens don’t dominate their child’s daily routine. A good approach is to establish tech-free times, such as during meals or before bed, and to encourage regular breaks during study sessions or when gaming.

At the same time, not all screen time is created equal. Some online activities can be highly educational and help students develop critical thinking skills, while others may be more passive or even harmful. Parents should guide their Year 7 students in distinguishing between productive and unproductive screen time. Engaging in conversations about what they’re doing online, whether it’s school-related, social, or for fun, helps build trust and encourages healthier screen habits. With the right balance, screens can be a valuable part of a young person’s life without overshadowing other important activities like exercise, hobbies, and face-to-face interactions.

Misinformation

Misinformation online is a growing issue that parents of young teens need to be aware of, especially as teens become more active online and start seeking out information on their own. With social media, blogs, and videos often mixing fact with opinion or falsehoods, it can be easy for your kids to come across content that is misleading or completely inaccurate. This is particularly concerning when misinformation spreads around important topics like health, politics, or social issues. Parents should talk to their teens about the importance of critically evaluating what they read online, teaching them to check the source of information and to be cautious of sensationalised headlines or stories that seem too extreme.

It’s also helpful to encourage open dialogue, where your child feels comfortable asking questions about things they’ve seen online. By discussing how to identify trustworthy sources and the risks of spreading unverified information, parents can help their teens become more discerning in the digital world. Using real-life examples of misinformation, such as viral hoaxes or manipulated images, can also make these lessons more relatable and impactful. In a world where information is just a click away, equipping young teens with the tools to navigate online content responsibly is crucial for their development and safety.

Online Predation

Online predation is a serious concern for parents of 10- to 12-year-olds, as children at this age are increasingly exploring the internet independently, often engaging on social media, gaming platforms, or chat apps. Predators can take advantage of these spaces, posing as peers or friendly adults to build trust with young users. It’s important for parents to be aware of the risks and to openly discuss the importance of online safety with their children. Setting clear boundaries, such as not sharing personal information or accepting friend requests from strangers, can help protect children from dangerous interactions.

Parents should also monitor their child’s online activity and encourage them to report anything that feels uncomfortable or suspicious. Creating an open, non-judgmental space for these conversations makes it more likely that children will come to their parents if they encounter a problem. Installing parental controls or using monitoring tools can offer an extra layer of security, but the most effective approach is to combine these with regular discussions about safe and respectful online behaviour.

Mental Health & Wellbeing

As year 7 children spend more time online, their mental health and well-being can be affected by the content they consume and their interactions in the digital world. Parents need to be aware that while the internet can offer positive experiences, such as learning opportunities and social connections, it can also expose children to negative influences like cyberbullying, peer pressure, and unrealistic standards set by social media. These experiences can impact a child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being, particularly at a time when they are navigating the transition from childhood to adolescence. Keep an eye on any changes in behaviour, such as increased anxiety, mood swings, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, as these may be signs of negative online experiences.

To support your child’s mental health, parents should create a space for open conversations about what’s happening online and how it makes their child feel. Encouraging regular breaks from screens, promoting offline activities, and fostering positive self-image are all steps that can help children maintain a healthy relationship with the digital world. Additionally, helping kids understand that not everything they see online is real can reduce the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, whether related to appearance, success, or popularity. By staying involved and offering guidance, parents can help their children balance their online lives with their overall well-being.