Family Online Safety Institute

Big News! 🌟   FOSI is excited to announce our new partnership with Discovery Education to launch the Digital Citizenship Initiative aimed at empowering families, children, and educators with the tools they need to navigate the digital world responsibly. Together, we’ll be providing resources to enhance confidence and understanding in digital citizenship, a critical skill for today’s online world. 🌐📘 We’re excited to work together in promoting responsible digital behavior for the next generation. Learn more here👇: https://lnkd.in/gGhgyZtX

🌐 It's Neurodiversity Awareness Month and we're spotlighting how digital media impacts neurodivergent youth. In our latest blog, Leah Talbert explores research-based insights and strategies for creating a safe and empowering digital environment for all children. From tools that aid communication and focus to the importance of digital literacy, this piece is a must-read for parents, educators, and advocates. 📚✍️ 📲 Click through the images below to learn more! 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eEDszW-3

🎟 Registration is officially open for the #FOSI2025 European Forum! 🎉 Join us on June 11 at Netflix’s EMEA Headquarters in Amsterdam for a full-day event bringing together policymakers, academics, researchers, and industry leaders from across the globe. 🌐 With the theme The Philosophy, Policy, and Practice of Online Safety, this year’s forum will explore the deeper frameworks behind digital safety—examining how values, regulation, and real-world action come together to create a safer internet for children and families. ✅ We hope you’ll join us in Amsterdam for this important and timely conversation! 🔗 Register now: https://lnkd.in/etDRvDnS

Yesterday, FOSI CEO Stephen Balkam joined a powerful discussion hosted by Breakfast Media LLC on Kids and Social Media: The Business of Keeping Young Users Safe. 🛡️💻 Stephen emphasized that while we must protect kids, we must also empower them—advocating for measured restrictions over outright bans, which often carry unintended consequences. He also reflected on the Netflix documentary #Adolescence, which dives into online challenges like hate, misogyny, cyberbullying, and sexting with depth and complexity—reminding us that real change starts with real conversations. 🗣️✅ Thanks to Broadband Breakfast and the entire panel for a thoughtful and timely conversation. Watch the full session below 👇: https://lnkd.in/eX2F8q5t

🎬 Today’s episode of Andrew, the Policy Guy features a special guest—FOSI CEO Stephen Balkam—sharing his thoughts on the hit Netflix show #Adolescence. From setting boundaries to fostering open conversations, Stephen breaks down three key takeaways for raising kids in the digital age.💡 We explore how pop culture can spark meaningful discussions about parenting and technology. Watch now and join the conversation: What were your takeaways from the show? ✍️ ⬇️

What can a Netflix series teach us about raising boys in the digital age? 🗣️ In this special edition of The Assurance, FOSI Founder & CEO Stephen Balkam explores the powerful new series Adolescence—a gripping drama that’s igniting urgent conversations about toxic masculinity, online radicalization, and parenting in a hyper-connected world. Could this be a modern-day moment for how we raise and protect children online? Read the full piece now to learn more. ✍️🌐

Today is International Trans Day of Visibility—a moment to celebrate trans voices, experiences, and resilience. 🏳️⚧️🗣️ We’re proud to share a new blog by Wren Rhodes, Ph.D. of the Sam and Devorah Foundation for Transgender Youth, titled “When Visibility Isn’t Safe: Helping Trans Youth Navigate Online Experiences.” This thoughtful piece explores the unique challenges trans youth face in digital spaces—and what trusted adults can do to support them. 🤲 Read the full blog now to learn more ➡️: https://lnkd.in/eCh7zHcp

Introducing The Assurance 🌟 We’re excited to launch 'The Assurance,' FOSI's new monthly newsletter designed to keep you informed, empowered, and connected on the most pressing topics in digital safety. Each issue features expert insights, timely policy updates, and practical tools for families, caregivers, and industry leaders navigating the online world. ✅ Our first issue dives into age assurance—what it means, why it’s gaining global attention, and how it could reshape how we protect kids and teens online. We break down what you need to know and how it impacts families, platforms, and policymakers alike. ✍️ 📰 Read the first issue and subscribe now:

Introducing The Assurance 🌟 We’re excited to launch 'The Assurance,' FOSI's new monthly newsletter designed to keep you informed, empowered, and connected on the most pressing topics in digital safety. Each issue features expert insights, timely policy updates, and practical tools for families, caregivers, and industry leaders navigating the online world. ✅ Our first issue dives into age assurance—what it means, why it’s gaining global attention, and how it could reshape how we protect kids and teens online. We break down what you need to know and how it impacts families, platforms, and policymakers alike. ✍️ 📰 Read the first issue and subscribe now:

We’re back with Day 2 of Age Assurance Week 🧠 Yesterday, we asked how platforms should determine a user’s age and received some great responses. Today, we’re shifting the focus to responsibility. When it comes to keeping kids safe online, who should be taking the lead? Cast your vote and let us know what you think or type below for longer responses! 🗳️⬇️