What to Do If Something Goes Wrong Online
- Brigid McCormick
- Aug 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 28
A Parent’s Guide to Staying Calm, Getting the Facts, and Helping Your Child Learn from Mistakes
You’ve set the rules. You’ve had the conversations. You’ve even put on parental controls. And still—your child clicked something they shouldn’t have, saw something upsetting, or talked to someone they didn’t know online.
First things first: You’re not alone.
Even the most careful, tech-savvy families can run into bumps when it comes to the internet. What matters most is how you respond and what your child learns from the experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to handling an online safety issue with calm, confidence, and connection.
Step 1: Stay Calm
Your first instinct might be to panic or scold—but the way you respond will set the tone for how your child reacts the next time something goes wrong.
Even if you’re shocked or upset, take a breath and remind yourself: Your child needs support, not shame.
Try saying:
“Thank you for telling me. I’m proud of you for coming to me.”
“You’re not in trouble. We’re going to figure it out together.”
“I know that must’ve felt weird/scary/confusing. I’m here to help.”
By staying calm and compassionate, you open the door to trust and communication.
Step 2: Gather the Facts
To help your child and assess the situation, you’ll need to know what actually happened. Keep your tone curious, not accusatory.
Ask simple questions like:
“What happened?”
“What did you click on or see?”
“Who was it from?”
“What did the message say?”
If your child is young or has trouble with open-ended questions, use visual tools or yes/no options. You can also point to the device or app and ask them to show you.
The goal here is understanding, not interrogation.
Step 3: Teach and Practice the Safer Choice
Now it’s time to turn this moment into a teachable opportunity.
Start by calmly explaining what the safer choice would’ve been, and then practice it together. Use visuals, role-play, or step-by-step language to make it stick.
For example:
If you see a message from someone you don’t know, here’s what to do next time:
Stop
Close the app
Tell me right away.”
Rehearsing builds confidence and helps your child remember what to do when something feels “off” online.
Step 4: Monitor and Follow Up
Once things are addressed, take a few practical steps to prevent future issues:
Change passwords if needed
Check privacy settings on apps or games
Block or report any inappropriate contacts
Move screens into shared spaces if they’re not already
Also, keep an eye on your child’s mood and behavior over the next few days. If they seem unusually anxious, withdrawn, or irritable, that may be a signal to talk more or seek support.
You’re Not Alone—And You’re Not Failing
The internet is full of amazing opportunities—but also a few landmines. Your job isn’t to prevent every mistake. It’s to be a safe place to land when something goes wrong, and to help your child grow stronger, smarter, and more prepared each time.
In Summary:
Stay calm and connected
Ask clear, non-judgmental questions
Teach and model the safer response
Follow up with practical changes and support
You’re doing great—and your child is lucky to have someone guiding them through this one step at a time. 💙
Download the Free Safe vs. Unsafe Online Behavior Sorting Activity
👉 [Get the Free Activity] – a printable tool to help kids spot online red flags, practice decision-making, and build safer internet habits.
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