As parents, educators, and mentors, we teach our children how to behave respectfully in public, at home, and in school but are we also teaching them how to behave online? In today’s digital age, where children as young as five interact with smartphones, tablets, social media, and messaging platforms, digital etiquette—or “netiquette”—is no longer optional. It’s an essential life skill.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to raise godly, respectful digital citizens who reflect their values both offline and online.
What Is Digital Etiquette?
Digital etiquette refers to the code of polite, respectful, and responsible behavior when interacting with others online or using digital devices. It includes how we:
Communicate in texts, emails, and online forums
Participate in video calls
Share content on social media
Respect others’ privacy
Manage screen time and device use
In simple terms: Manners still matter—even on screens.
Why Digital Etiquette Matters for Children and Teens
Everything your child posts, says, or shares online contributes to their digital footprint. Teaching them to post with purpose helps them build a positive reputation that honors their future and reflects Christ.
“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” — Colossians 3:17
Children must learn that the same rules of kindness and respect apply online. Name-calling, sarcasm, gossip, or inappropriate memes are not harmless they can hurt, bully, and isolate others.
Proper digital etiquette includes understanding what not to share (private details, photos, or sensitive information), how to respond to cyberbullying, and how to recognize unsafe or ungodly content.
The way your child interacts online should reflect integrity, self-control, and love just like their real-life behavior. Teaching digital manners supports their spiritual growth and leadership development.
Godly Digital Etiquette Every Child and Teen Should Learn
Here’s a list of digital manners every child should be taught from a young age:
Ask: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Would I say it face-to-face?
Encourage children to memorize and pray Psalm 141:3:
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
Use polite greetings (“Hello,” “Please,” “Thank you”), avoid ALL CAPS (which can seem like shouting), and never use emojis or language that mock or harm others.
Teach children to:
Log in on time.
Sit up and face the camera.
Keep background quiet and distraction-free.
Use the chat respectfully.
Mute themselves when not speaking.
Great for online school, church classes, and mentorship sessions.
Children must understand that privacy matters. Teach them to avoid posting:
Their full name, address, or school name.
Family schedules or holiday plans.
Embarrassing pictures of themselves or others.
Content that could misrepresent their faith or values.
Whether it’s a friend, a sibling, or a family gathering—ask first before sharing someone else’s photo or video.
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4
Silence can sometimes mean agreement. Teach your child how to:
Speak up for others respectfully
Report bullying or harmful content
Choose to unfollow, block, or step away from toxic online spaces
Teach children that being offline is healthy. Establish screen-free zones (e.g., meal times, devotion times, before bed) to promote balance and real connection with God and family.
How to Teach Digital Etiquette at Home
Let your kids see you:
Pausing to think before posting
Using encouraging words online
Praying before responding to difficult messages
Turning off screens for family time
Set clear rules like:
“No phones at the dinner table.”
“All devices go off by 8 PM.”
“Always ask before downloading or signing up.”
Write a Digital Family Agreement together.
At Empower Kidz and Teenz Academy, our Digital Literacy and Online Safety programme teaches:
Online respect and responsibility.
Creating a godly digital footprint.
Using technology for positive impact.
Biblical foundations for internet use.
Children don’t just learn to use technology—they learn to lead in it.
Final Thoughts: Shine Your Light Online
As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Let’s raise children who don’t lose their light online—but shine even brighter with grace, kindness, and wisdom in the digital world.
Ready to Equip Your Child for Digital Success?
📅 Our Digital Literacy & Etiquette Class runs every term
🎥 Delivered online via Zoom – fun, interactive, and Scripture-based
👨🏾💻 Ages 5–19
💌 For more information: www.empowerkidzandteenz.com
