What is media literacy – and why does it matter?

Media literacy is the process we use to identify different types of media and content, understand and analyse sources of information, and understand potential harms. Online media literacy is how we understand and navigate this in the online world – for example, disinformation, risky functionalities, protecting our data and privacy, and much more. 

These are crucial skills for everyone – young and old. The less literate someone is to digital content and spaces, the more vulnerable they are when they go online.

UK legislation like the Online Safety Act will attempt to make the internet safer for everyone in the UK. But even if we have the Highway Code – with rules for speed limits and seatbelts – drivers, cyclists and pedestrians still need to have their road wits about them to keep themselves safe. 

It’s similar for the internet. While regulations should keep us safer, learning how to use platforms, understand content and interact with others online is still crucial for children and parents.

Essential everyday parenting skills

Many parenting decisions around the internet rely on digital literacy – especially the ability to understand and critically assess online spaces a child may visit. This makes online media literacy an essential everyday parenting skill. 

It might be deciding whether your child is mature enough for social media platforms or online games – and being aware of the types of content, functionalities or privacy settings these platforms feature. It might be understanding where and why disinformation or scams might appear online, and helping your child navigate these more safely.

The more you understand about online spaces and how they operate, the more you can support your child. 

Media literacy for parents

Of course, understanding the ever-changing digital world – and new and emerging platforms – may feel like an impossible task. But there are some things you can try.

1. Do some research

Parent Zone’s Library of parent guides is a good place to start. 

Our articles break down important digital parenting matters to consider – from specific online platforms to topics such as influencer marketing and skills like critical thinking. Have a look and see what might be useful.

2. Keep talking

Try to have regular chats with your child about what they like doing online and why. It might sound simple – but openly discussing your everyday online lives can help you feel more involved in what they do, where they go, and who they meet online. It may also help you spot if there is a potential problem, or help them feel they can come to you if something confuses them, and they need advice.

3. Allow them to explore

Remember: a child’s digital media literacy will not be developed by stopping them from accessing the internet. Parental controls and settings are one part of online safety – but children need to learn to become confident and resilient internet users, and that will only happen by exploring online with appropriate boundaries, support and encouragement. If you do encounter a problem, there are many organisations that can help.

4. Get set up right

You can also familiarise yourself with the devices your child uses. Knowing how to set up a games console, mobile device or tablet will help them explore and develop their online media literacy more safely. 

Take particular notice of the settings and parental controls available – and device functionalities you might not be aware of. For example, today’s games consoles aren’t just for playing games: they are social, retail and streaming platforms, meaning there’s much more to consider than just gaming. Read our Digital Family Basics series for more.