Back to school 2026: the right approach to supporting children in their digital lives!

The start of the new school year marks a return to the classroom, but also the return of focus groups, of social media and perhaps some first telephone… In short, the return of the digital uses which are once again shaping the daily lives of children and teenagers.

First mobile phone, new social media platforms, artificial intelligence… Parents can sometimes feel at a loss when faced with rapidly changing trends. However, a few simple guidelines can help them support their child, prevent risky situations and know how to react if a problem arises.

On the occasion of the start of the 2026 academic year, the e-Enfance / 3018 Association offers families and young people a range of practical information sheets, ideas designed to give both parents and children practical advice and suited to their everyday lives.

Key topics for getting the year off to a good start

Preventing bullying and cyberbullying

A change in behaviour, a sudden fear of going to school or checking their mobile phone, withdrawal or sleep problems can all be signs that should be taken seriously. Our resources enable us to to spot a harassment situation or cyberbullying, to develop the right habits and from knowing who to turn to to get help.

First mobile phone: setting boundaries from the outset

The arrival of the first smartphone is an important milestone in a child’s life. It can be an opportunity to set, together, some simple rules : screen time, authorised applications, data protection, interactions with strangers or even using the telephone in the evening.

Social media: guiding users 

The social media as TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram and private messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram) are among the social spaces adolescents. However, their use requires certain reflexes : choose what we publish, protect his account, how to block and report a user or even to think before share a photo or a personal information.

Artificial intelligence: learning to use it with a sense of perspective

The artificial intelligence tools now occupy a increasing importance in young people’s everyday lives: for doing research, studying, creating images or simply confiding in someone about their first heartbreaks. But an AI can to make a mistake, to invent information or produce highly realistic but fake content, including images, videos and voice recordings. Data and documents entrusted to it must also be shared with caution.

Protecting your privacy and that of your child

Photos of the start of term, holidays, birthdays… Parents share sometimes from many moments of their child’s life on the social media.

Before publishing, it is worth to ask oneself on what this photograph or this information reveals, so as not to to exhibit the child in question to malicious adults.