Cybersecurity Education Resources for Grades K-5

Even our youngest citizens need to be cyber aware! CISA offers resources that are curated for the curiosity of young minds who will grow into future leaders. Introducing basic cybersecurity concepts and foundational knowledge to help children grow and learn the cyber skills that can protect them from digital dangers. Starting cybersecurity education at an early age ensures that these students will build a lifelong resilience to cyber threats. 

Children engage with the internet earlier and earlier in their lives, from playing games, to watching videos, and listening to music. While online, they face the possibility of encountering a cybercriminal who wants to steal information or fool them into making bad decisions. Luckily, CISA has the following resources to help keep your children and family safe online, and to show them how they can help others when they get older by working in the world of cybersecurity. 

K-5 Cybersecurity Resources

Cyber Safety     

• Chatting with Kids about Being Online is a booklet that provides excellent resources for parents and educators, covering topics from cyberbullying to smarter smart phone usage.
• CYBER.ORG’s Keys to Cybersecurity are self-paced, engaging activities designed to introduce students in 3rd - 8th grade to basic cybersecurity concepts. After completing each Key, students will be awarded a certificate showing mastery over the topic.
• CYBER.ORG also offers various resources in Spanish.
• Join Pascal and Python as they learn all about internet safety in CYBER.ORG’s comic strip series The Adventures of Pascal and Python.
• The Creating a Password Tip Card is a one-page document with a list of simple tips to create a secure password.
• CYBER.ORG and CISA partnered to produce the Cyber Safety Series, a video series highlighting some common potential threats children are likely to face online and what can be done to make sure everyone stays safe.

Cybersecurity Games and Hands-On Activities 

• CYBER.ORG hosts various camps and competitions that provide students with the opportunity to become more involved in cyber, in a fun and interactive way.