As the school year comes to an end, thousands of children across Albania are entering a new phase: long summer holidays, with more free time and increased exposure to digital technology.
For many parents, this is a challenging period: how to create a healthy balance between entertainment, development, and the protection of their children in an online world that has no physical boundaries—but very real risks.
Technology is part of everyday life. But safety is not automatic.
Children today are growing up with screens in front of their eyes. Games, videos, social media, and educational apps are part of their daily routine. But that does not eliminate the need for proper guidance, supervision, and education on digital safety.
Online threats targeting minors—from cyberbullying to contact with strangers, inappropriate content, or phishing disguised as games—are more widespread than we often realize.
Where does protection begin?
1. Open communication
Don’t limit yourself to prohibitions. Ask your child calmly:
– Who are your friends in the game?
– What’s your favorite YouTube channel?
When you build trust, they will share more with you.
2. Clear and reasonable rules
Set time limits for device use, decide together which apps are allowed, and review the content they access.
3. Leading by example
If parents are always on their phones, it’s hard to ask their children not to be.
4. Moderate, non-intrusive supervision
Review the apps being used. Do they contain ads? Do they request access to personal data?
Many children’s apps may collect data in hidden ways.
5. Ongoing awareness
Teach your children about the importance of privacy, the risks of interacting with strangers, and the consequences of sharing photos or videos carelessly.
The role of institutions is essential, but everything begins at home.
The National Authority for Cyber Security is committed to raising awareness about digital safety, providing training and guidance to all users—but parents remain the first and strongest line of defense for their children in the online world.
As the school year draws to a close and children prepare for the summer break, let’s remember:
Entertainment matters, but safety is essential.