Developed by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Mission Kids offers interactive, age-appropriate internet safety programs called “NetSmartz” that help children and teens navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Each program is tailored to a specific age group and focuses on developmentally appropriate online safety topics, digital citizenship, and healthy technology habits.
Into the Cloud (Ages 10 and Under)
Features
- Age Level: Ages 10 and under
- Duration: (1) 60 Minute Lesson
- Instruction: In-person; virtual
About the Lesson
NetSmartz teaches kids under 10 how to stay safe online. Using the Into the Cloud ™️ video series, children learn about essential online safety topics like handling cyberbullying, recognizing unsafe content, and preventing online exploitation. Through age-appropriate activities and discussions, the program empowers kids to make smart choices while navigating the digital world.
This engaging, multimedia approach teaches kids how to:
- Recognize trustworthy vs. untrustworthy information online
- Identify potential online dangers like cyberbullying and exploitation
- Understand the importance of protecting personal information
- Respond to uncomfortable or unsafe online situations
With interactive discussions, activity sheets, and role-playing exercises, kids leave the session feeling empowered to make safer choices online.
Why We Love It
- Interactive and fun lessons designed specifically for young learners
- Real-world applications that help kids build healthy online habits
- Provides caregivers with resources to continue the conversation at home
NetSmartz (Grades K-6)
Features
- Age Level: Grades K-6 (Elementary)
- Duration: (1) 30 Minute Lesson
- Instruction: Classroom-based (preferred) and/or assembly presentation
About the Lesson
Mission Kids’ elementary school cyber safety program teaches students in grades K–5 how to stay safe online through age-appropriate, engaging lessons. Using the trusted NetSmartzKids characters—Clicky, Tera, Nettie, and Webster—students learn important skills through animated videos, interactive discussions, and take-home resources.
The program helps children understand digital citizenship, recognize unsafe content, protect personal information, avoid meeting online contacts in person, and respond to cyberbullying.
To ensure developmentally appropriate learning, we offer two different programs:
- Grades K–2: Be Safer Online with NetSmartz
- Grades 3-5: Being a Good Digital Citizen
This engaging, multimedia approach teaches kids how to:
- Recognize trustworthy vs. untrustworthy information online
- Identify potential online dangers like cyberbullying and exploitation
- Understand the importance of protecting personal information
- Respond to uncomfortable or unsafe online situations
With interactive discussions, activity sheets, and role-playing exercises, kids leave the session feeling empowered to make safer choices online.
Why We Love It
- Teaches kids how to navigate the online world safely, confidently, and respectfully
- Helps children recognize risks and empowers them to respond appropriately
- Encourages open communication between kids and trusted adults
- Encourages open communication between kids and trusted adults
NetSmartz (Grades 6-12)
Features
- Age Level: Grades 6-12 (Secondary)
- Duration: (1) Lesson, Recommended 60-80 Minutes
- Instruction: Classroom-based (preferred) and/or assembly presentation
About the Lesson
Mission Kids’ cyber safety programs for secondary students help young people navigate today’s digital world with confidence and responsibility. Tailored by age group, these engaging, age-appropriate lessons promote digital empowerment and informed decision-making.
- “NetSmartz: Online Safety” is designed for middle school students (grades 6–8), focusing on recognizing online risks, protecting privacy, and making safe choices when using technology.
- “NetSmartz: Advanced Online Safety” is geared toward high school students (grades 9–12), addressing more complex online challenges and encouraging responsible, thoughtful digital citizenship.
Both programs foster a safe environment where students feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and learning practical strategies they can use every day.
Why We Love It
- Provides real-world tools teens can use immediately to protect themselves online
- Addresses age-appropriate risks like sextortion, grooming, and privacy concerns
- Encourages students to seek help and talk with trusted adults
- Empowers digital citizenship while promoting safe, respectful online behavior
