Why do teens hide parts of their online lives from their parents, even when they have loving families?

Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as not feeling free to dance.

In this episode of Secret Lives of Teens Online, I explain why I genuinely believe dancing can help protect kids online and why not feeling free to fully express myself at home contributed to the secret online life I had as a teen.

And when I say "dance," I don't only mean literally dancing.

Your teen's version of dancing might be gaming, anime, music, fashion, books, creating videos, being silly, or an interest you simply don't understand.

When teens feel like they have to hide the things they love, the internet can become the place where they feel most free to be themselves.

That's important for parents to understand because online predators can take advantage of a child's desire for acceptance, belonging, connection, and a place where they feel understood.

I also talk about why seeing my mom become more joyful and expressive helped me feel safer being myself around her, why kids sometimes avoid telling parents about difficult experiences because they don't want to burden them, and why protecting kids online requires more than parental controls, monitoring, and knowing the latest apps.

Does your teen feel more like themselves online than they do with you?

That's the question I want parents to think about after this episode.

Because helping kids stay safer online isn't only about teaching them what danger feels like. We also have to help them understand what safety feels like in themselves, in their relationships, and at home.

And sometimes, creating more of that safety really can start with dancing.

Want to share your story? If you want to share your experience growing up online (the good, bad, ugly, and beautiful), you can email me at: slotopodcast@gmail.com. You can share your story anonymously in writing or ask about participating in a video interview.

Want to connect? Follow me on Instagram: @CyberFareedah and send me a message with your thoughts on the podcast! You can also connect with me on LinkedIn or wherever else you spend your time online! I’m CyberFareedah everywhere ♥

Want to work with me? If you’re interested in a workshop, speaking engagement, partnership, or other project, email me at support@sekuva.com or submit a booking request here: https://www.cyberfareedah.com/projects