Why Schools Must Teach Online Safety in Today’s Digital World

Students today grow up online. From classroom tablets to social media and gaming, digital life starts early—and moves fast. But while kids are quick to download the latest app, they’re often not taught how to use it safely. 

That’s where schools come in. 

Teqare believes online safety isn’t optional. It should be part of every school’s learning plan.

Here’s why online safety education matters and how it helps protect and empower students across Canada.

Why Is Online Safety Important for Students?

Kids and teens face unique digital risks every day, including:

• Cyberbullying

• Phishing scams

• Privacy breaches

• Inappropriate content

• Identity theft

Without the right knowledge, students may click on dangerous links, overshare online, or fall for scams. Teaching online safety gives them the tools to spot red flags, make smart choices, and protect themselves—and their devices—from harm.

It’s not just about avoiding danger. It’s about building lifelong digital skills that students will carry into high school, post-secondary, and beyond.

What Online Safety Education Should Include

Privacy Basics

Students should know what information is okay to share and what isn’t. That includes understanding privacy settings, recognizing when apps ask for too much data, and keeping passwords private.

How to Handle Cyberbullying

Online safety education should cover how to respond to cyberbullying, block harmful users, and report abuse on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok.

Spotting Scams and Phishing

Kids are just as likely as adults to be targeted by fake emails, pop-ups, and sketchy links.

Simple lessons on spotting a scam can make a big difference.

Respectful Online Behaviour

It’s not just about safety—it’s about digital citizenship. Students need to learn how to be respectful online, avoid harmful comments, and understand the impact of their words and actions in digital spaces.

Schools Are the Ideal Place to Teach It

School is where students learn reading, math, science, and how to think critically. So why not digital safety? Integrating online safety into the classroom ensures that every student, regardless of their background, has access to these vital lessons.

When teachers model safe habits and talk openly about digital life, it creates a culture where asking for help isn’t scary—and learning how to stay safe becomes just as normal as learning how to read.

What Teqare Offers Schools Across Canada

Teqare works with schools to deliver age-appropriate digital safety workshops that support educators and empower students. 

Our sessions include:

• Interactive activities and real-life examples

• Culturally relevant content for Indigenous communities

• Group discussions on digital stress and peer pressure

• Practical tips for managing screen time and protecting devices

We also provide guidance for parents and teachers, so the conversation continues at home and in the classroom.

Every Student Deserves to Feel Safe Online

Learning doesn’t stop at the school gates—and neither does digital life. When students know how to protect their privacy, spot scams, and treat others with respect, they’re better equipped for school, social life, and the future workplace.

Online safety isn’t a tech issue—it’s a life skill. And just like reading or writing, it should be taught early and often.

Bring Online Safety into Your School with Teqare

Want to equip your students with the tools to stay safe, smart, and confident online? 

Teqare’s school-focused digital safety workshops make it easy. Tailored for all grade levels and aligned with real-world digital challenges, our sessions support both students and educators.

Visit us to bring Teqare into your school community and make online safety part of everyday learning.