Thirteen is an important age for internet users in the United States. Companies generally don’t let 12-year-olds join social media, browse certain websites, or sign up for email addresses—at least not without fibbing about their age.

 

At 13, kids do not have to lie. It’s natural if parents think the shift relates to 13-year-olds being mature enough to handle internet content. However, the dividing line at 13 relates to the law called COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act). COPPA limits what websites and online service operators can do with younger children’s personal information.

 

COPPA compliance takes a lot of effort. Rather than jump through legal hoops, many websites, apps, games, or services label themselves as not for the under-13 set. Thus is borne the perception that 13-year-olds are mature enough to handle what the internet throws at them.

 

In reality, many 13-year-olds still need direction and even a little supervision as they navigate adult freedoms online. This guide offers practical tips on internet use for parents of teenagers. It also explains what COPPA is and breaks down what websites and kids can and can’t do “legally” at 13.

 

For more information and to view the 6 Practical Internet Use Tips for Parents of Teenagers visit the link below.