Ontario Sets Kids' Online Safety Month

Summary#

• This Ontario bill would declare every October as Kids’ Online Safety and Privacy Month.

• The goal is to raise awareness about how to keep children safe and protect their privacy online.

• Declares a yearly awareness month focused on cyberbullying, online grooming, exploitation, and privacy.

• Encourages parents, schools, and communities to teach safe online habits.

• Does not create new rules, fines, or programs.

• Takes effect once it becomes law.

What it means for you#

• Parents and caregivers

  • You may see more tips, workshops, and reminders in October about supervising kids online and using safety tools.
  • More resources may be shared on topics like screen time, privacy settings, and spotting scams.

• Students and families

  • Schools may discuss online safety more in October, including bullying, sharing personal info, and safe chatting.
  • You might receive take-home guides or links to trusted resources.

• Schools and educators

  • No new requirements, but the month can be used to highlight digital safety lessons and host info sessions.

• Community groups and libraries

  • May choose to host talks, share resources, or run events on kids’ online safety during October.

• Local governments and the province

  • May issue proclamations or run awareness campaigns, but are not required to.

• Businesses and tech platforms

  • No new obligations. Some may choose to promote safety and privacy tools during October.

Expenses#

Estimated government cost: none required by the bill; any awareness activities would be optional.

• The bill only declares a month. It does not fund programs or require new spending.
• Any costs would come from voluntary campaigns or events chosen by schools, agencies, or communities.
• No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Raises public awareness so parents and kids know common online risks and how to avoid them.
• Encourages schools and communities to coordinate lessons and events at a common time each year.
• Signals that children’s online safety and privacy are a priority for the province.
• Low-cost way to promote safer online behavior and share practical tools with families.

Opponents' View#

• Mostly symbolic; it does not change laws, regulate platforms, or add protections on its own.
• No funding attached, so schools and communities may lack resources to run meaningful programs.
• Could duplicate existing awareness efforts without adding new support.
• May shift focus away from stronger steps, like tougher privacy rules or enforcement against online harms.