Online safety is an important topic for young people who spend a lot of time online. With so many apps, websites, and social spaces to explore, it is easy to run into risks like sharing too much information or talking with people who may not be trustworthy. Learning about these risks is the first step toward staying safe.
What is online safety?
Even with these concerns, the internet offers many positive opportunities. Young people use it to learn new things, stay connected with friends, and find resources that support their goals. Safety is not about avoiding the internet, but about knowing how to use it wisely so the experience stays enjoyable and secure.
The YouTube video, “What is online safety? | NSPCC Learning”, explains that online safety means helping young people use the internet in a safe and positive way. It shows that children can learn, explore, and connect with others safely when they have the right guidance and knowledge. Adults and teachers can help by supporting and protecting them, not just by setting rules. Learning how to stay safe online gives young people—including those with disabilities—the confidence to enjoy and take part in the digital world.
Some young adults, including those with disabilities, may face extra challenges when using online spaces. They might deal with accessibility issues, bullying, or trouble recognizing unsafe situations. That is why support from family members, teachers, and community groups is so helpful. Working together makes online safety easier to manage.
The Department of Homeland Security has a post, “Online Safety”, explaining that the internet can be risky because predators and human traffickers may try to target young people on social media, chat rooms, or other online spaces. To stay safe, don’t share personal information or photos that you wouldn’t want others to see, keep your profiles private, be careful about who you talk to online, and never meet someone in person if you only know them from the internet.
Featuring...
TCNJ's Pre-College Summer Program (PCSP)
From The College of New Jersey (TCNJ):
We’re excited to share an incredible opportunity for New Jersey high school students (ages 16–21) with intellectual and developmental disabilities!
The Pre-College Summer Program (PCSP) at The College of New Jersey invites eligible students to experience college life first-hand through an immersive 10-day, 9-night residential program designed to inspire independence, confidence, and future success.
Participants live on campus, and take part in engaging classes, workshops, and hands-on experiences that focus on college and career readiness, employment skills, and self-advocacy—all within a supportive, inclusive community.
There will be two sessions held in summer 2026, both on the campus of The College of New Jersey:
Session 1: July 7-16, 2026
Session 2: July 21–30, 2026
Online applications will open on December 1, 2025.
Want to learn more?
Join our virtual information session on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Register here: https://tcnj.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_82qTgOSDlOVuIvQ
We’d be grateful if you could share the attached flyer with students and families who may be interested in this exciting opportunity.
For additional details, please visit pcsp.tcnj.edu or contact us at pcsp@tcnj.edu.
The SPAN Youth Chat
On December 3rd, from 4:15 to 5:00 PM, join Jeremy Hayer and the Youth Engagement Team for a presentation on personal support networks. The focus will be on how to build strong and reliable circles of support that include family, friends, and trusted peers. These circles help youth navigate challenges, reach goals, and strengthen self-advocacy skills.
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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