The Security Awareness Pixie - Too Much Screen Time: A guide for helping our children stay safe online

Through memorable poetry and captivating imagery, Sandy, the Security Awareness Pixie, takes children on an adventure teaching them about security and safety in the online world. Children between the ages of 3-12 are increasingly exposed to digital environments where risks abound. At this impressionable age, children are curious and may inadvertently share personal information or fall victim to online threats such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or scams.

By teaching them the basics of cybersecurity early on, we can instill safe online habits, helping them understand the importance of privacy, recognizing suspicious activity, and knowing how to respond to potential dangers. This foundational knowledge not only protects them in their formative years but also sets the stage for a lifetime of safe internet use.

This book emphasizes practical steps to reduce screen distractions, like silencing notifications, so children can fully engage in real-world interactions. It illustrates how reducing screen time not only enhances physical activities but also enriches imagination, as children notice the beauty of nature and create stories about their surroundings.

This story encourages children to find a healthy balance between technology use and active play. Key moments like setting screens aside during family dinners and turning off devices before bedtime are highlighted to reinforce daily habits that promote better sleep and family bonding. Overall, the story aims to inspire children to explore the world around them, making the most of every day away from screens, filled with laughter, exploration, and adventure.

Dr. Andrew Aken is the creative mind behind Sandy, the Security Awareness Pixie. Dr. Aken was a professor of Cyber Security and Management Information Systems for 16 years. During this time, he was selected as the Best Professor in Information Systems by the World Education Conference. He has also been an entrepreneur, consultant, and a leader in cybersecurity for over 20 years working with several Fortune 500 companies. During this time, Dr. Aken established security awareness training programs for all levels of employees.