(iv) Protecting your child from online challenges and hoaxes

Children and youths have a strong desire for a sense of belonging and to be part of something larger than themselves. As a result, they may act in dangerous or unhealthy ways to fit in, without considering the potential risks or consequences.

With a strong and positive parent-child relationship, you can provide your child with meaningful advice and intervene in a timely manner when you sense that something is amiss with them.

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How can I keep my child safe from online challenges and hoaxes?

Online challenges and hoaxes are often circulated via social media.

Online challenges usually involve people recording themselves doing something and daring others to do the same.

Hoaxes are challenges that trick people into believing something that is not true, sometimes causing fear and panic (e.g. Momo Challenge).

I'm glad that you did not hurt yourself during this online challenge. Could you help me understand why you decided to do that

Both online challenges and hoaxes appeal to children and youths as they provide participants and viewers a shared bonding experience. While some of these challenges may seem fun and are for a good cause (e.g. Ice Bucket Challenge), others may endanger your child (e.g. Skull Breaker Challenge).

To ensure your child’s safety, discuss with them the advantages and potential risks involved when participating in an online challenge and guide them to make an informed and responsible decision about their participation.

Engaging in conversations about online challenges can be a confusing experience, especially if you know little about it.

Here are some ways you can find out more about trending online challenges, as well as your child’s thoughts and feelings towards them:

Read up and stay informed of trends happening online. You can also ask your child to share about trending online challenges.

For example you can say:

What are the trending challenges happening online right now

Get your child to think about the benefits and risks of participating in online challenges using Stop-Think-Do. When they encounter an online challenge, get them to:

Stop what they are about to do.

For example, you can say:

I know that online challenges can be fun, and some may even help spread awareness for a good cause. Before participating in such challenges, let’s think about our safety first

Think of the different choices they have and the consequences of each choice for themselves and others.

For example, you can say:

Do the most responsible action for themselves and others. Encourage them to talk to you or a trusted adult for support if necessary.

Get your child involved in writing out a set of rules and expectations for the family’s participation in various types of online challenges, as well as the consequences for not being able to follow the rules.

For example you can say:

Let’s come up with a set of rules on when we can participate in online challenges

If you find out that your child has participated in a dangerous online challenge, stay calm. Show care and concern first before finding out the reason for their decision to take on the online challenge.

During the conversation, avoid punishing them immediately. Instead, let them know that you will support and guide them in working out a solution if they encounter the same problem again.

For example, you can say: