💻 TechnologyLevel 1Lesson 10
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Ask an Adult Before Using Online Apps

Lesson preview: the Mini Lesson and Vocabulary are open to everyone. Guided practice, exercises, the parent checklist and the printable PDF worksheet come with full access (free 7-day trial or membership).

Learning Objectives

  • 1Sort online activities into those that need me to ask an adult first and those that are OK to use alone
  • 2Explain why getting permission keeps me safe
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Mini Lesson

The internet and apps can be wonderful — but they can also lead you somewhere unexpected. Asking a trusted adult before going online or opening a new app is one of the most important safety habits you can build!

Why asking first matters

  • Adults know which apps and websites are safe and right for your age.
  • Some apps connect you to strangers — adults can check whether that is safe.
  • Asking gives your adult the chance to supervise and help if something goes wrong.

When you must ask an adult first

  • Opening any new app you have never used before.
  • Visiting a website that was not set up for you by an adult.
  • Joining an online game or chat where other players can message you.
  • Watching videos on a platform that has not been checked by an adult.
  • Making any in-app purchase — even if it says "free."

When it is generally OK to use alone

  • A learning app that an adult has already set up and approved for you.
  • A drawing or creativity app with no internet connection or chat features.
  • A reading or math app that a parent or grown-up installed specifically for you.
Ask an adult first versus OK to use aloneTwo columns. Left column shows situations that need adult permission: new app, website, online game with chat, videos on unchecked platform, in-app purchase. Right column shows activities OK alone: approved learning app, offline drawing app, parent-installed math app.Ask an adult firstbefore doing theseOpening a new appVisiting a new websiteOnline game with chatUnchecked video platformAny in-app purchaseOK to use aloneif already approvedApproved learning appOffline drawing appParent-installed math appAdult set it up for you→ safe to enjoy!Not sure? Always ask first!Already checked? Enjoy!
Situations that need adult permission (new apps, websites, chats, purchases) beside activities already approved by an adult that are safe to use alone.
The ask-first decision flow for using appsA simple flowchart. Top box: I want to use an app or go online. Arrow down to diamond: Has an adult checked this for me? Yes arrow leads to: Go ahead and enjoy! No arrow leads to: Ask a trusted adult first.I want to use an appor go onlineHas an adultchecked thisfor me?YESGoahead!NOAskfirst!The golden rule:Not sure? → Always ask a trusted adult first!
A yes/no flowchart — if an adult has already checked the app, go ahead; if not sure, ask first.
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Ask yourself: "Has an adult already checked this app for me? If I am not sure — ask first!

Vocabulary
Permission
When a trusted adult says yes you may do somethinge.g. I got permission before opening the new app.
Trusted adult
A grown-up like a parent or grandparent who keeps you safee.g. A trusted adult helps me pick safe apps.
Online
Connected to the internete.g. I asked my mom before going online.
App
A small program on a device that does one jobe.g. My math app has games and puzzles.
Approved
Checked and said yes by an adulte.g. I only use approved websites at home.
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