Cyberbullying: Limiting screen time might not be best way to keep kids safe, experts say

The internet can be a dangerous place, especially for children. But experts say limiting screen time might not be the solution.

Fifteen percent of teenagers and preteens are bullied online or by text, according to StopBullying.gov.

Child psychologists say children need to develop safe online habits. Being that limiting screen time can be easier said than done, they’re turning their focus to responsible screen time.

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Experts say children need to be taught what they should share online and who they can share it with.

“We’re not talking about it enough with them for them to know that this is something that happens,” Dr. Nicole Beurkens, a holistic child psychologist, said. “It happens to lots of kids, and you need to speak up about it, so they tend to keep it to themselves, which increases the risk then of depression, anxiety, other kinds of things that can happen.”

>>RELATED STORY: Are you monitoring your kids’ social media activity? You should be, Pa. police say

There are a number of apps officials have said parents should watch out for. CLICK HERE for a list of some of them.

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