Child data privacy laws

Kids 8–12 · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What are child data privacy laws?

Child data privacy laws are legal rules designed to protect children’s personal information when they use websites, apps, or other online services. These laws make sure companies don’t collect or share kids’ data without permission from a parent or guardian. Since children may not understand the risks of sharing personal details online, these laws provide extra protection. The most important law in the U.S. is the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), which applies to children under 13 years old.

These laws require companies to:

• Tell parents what kind of information they want to collect
• Get parents’ permission before collecting or using children’s personal data
• Keep the information safe and not share it without approval

For example, if a website asks for a child’s full name, birthday, or photo, it must first explain why and get parental consent. This helps kids explore the internet safely and gives parents control over their child’s information.

How do child data privacy laws work, with a clear example?

Imagine a child named Mia wants to create an account on a new kids’ learning app that asks for her name, age, and an email address to send notifications. Because Mia is 10 years old, the app must follow child data privacy laws to protect her information. Here’s how it works step-by-step:

1. The app shows a message explaining what information it wants and why, such as "We collect your name and age to create your profile and send you learning reminders."
2. Before Mia can enter her info, the app asks her parent to give permission. This might happen by sending an email or asking the parent to click “I agree” on a consent form.
3. The parent reads the privacy policy, which explains how Mia’s information will be used and promises not to share it without consent.
4. Only after the parent approves can the app collect Mia’s name, age, and email.
5. The app must protect Mia’s data so it doesn’t get leaked or shared with other companies without permission.

If the app skips these steps or collects Mia’s data without permission, it can face legal penalties. This example shows how child data privacy laws work in practice to keep kids’ information safe.

Why do child data privacy laws matter for parents and teachers of 8-12 year olds?

Children aged 8 to 12 are curious and tech-savvy but may not fully understand online privacy risks. Parents and teachers are important guides to help children use the internet safely. Child data privacy laws help adults by:

• Giving parents control over what personal information their children share online
• Encouraging companies to design kid-friendly sites that respect privacy
• Helping teachers select safe digital tools for classrooms that follow privacy rules

For example, a teacher choosing a reading app for a class can check if the app follows privacy laws and asks for parental consent before collecting student data. Parents can explain to their children why apps sometimes require permission and what kinds of information are safe to share. This helps children learn how to protect their privacy and understand why it matters.

What are related terms often confused with child data privacy laws?

It can be confusing to understand terms related to data privacy. Here are some that people often mix up with child data privacy laws:

• Student privacy laws: These laws protect information collected by schools, like grades or attendance, but child data privacy laws apply to online companies collecting data directly from kids. See more in Overview of Student Privacy Laws.
• General data privacy laws: These protect personal info for all ages, but child data privacy laws have special rules just for children under 13.
• Cybersecurity: This is about protecting computers and networks from hackers, while data privacy focuses on keeping personal information safe and private.
• Parental controls: These are tools parents use to block or limit what kids see or do online, different from laws that require companies to protect kids’ data.

Understanding these differences helps parents and teachers know what protections exist and how to support children’s online safety.

What practical steps can parents and teachers take to protect children’s data privacy?

Parents and teachers can do many things to help protect kids’ online privacy:

1. Read privacy policies carefully: Before letting children use a website or app, adults should read its privacy policy to see what information is collected and how it’s used. Look for simple explanations and check if the service says it follows child data privacy laws.
2. Look for apps that follow COPPA and other laws: Choose apps and websites that clearly state they comply with child privacy laws. For example, a site might say, “We follow COPPA rules to protect your child’s information.”
3. Use parental controls and privacy settings: Many devices and apps allow parents to control what kids can do or see online and limit data sharing. For example, turning off location sharing or restricting profile visibility.
4. Teach kids about personal information: Explain in simple terms what is safe to share (like favorite colors or hobbies) versus what should stay private (like full name, home address, or school name). Use examples like “Don’t share your address with strangers online.”
5. Help kids complete permission forms: When an app asks for parental consent, assist the child in filling it out honestly and carefully, explaining why permission is needed.
6. Report suspicious activity: If a website or app collects too much information or doesn’t ask for permission, parents can report it to the Federal Trade Commission through sites like ReportFraud.

By following these steps, adults can help children enjoy online activities safely and protect their privacy.

How can teachers apply child data privacy laws when using digital tools in the classroom?

Teachers often use digital apps or websites to support learning. To protect students’ data privacy, teachers should:

• Choose educational tools that clearly state how they protect children’s information and comply with child data privacy laws. For instance, before adopting a reading app, check its privacy policy for parental consent requirements.
• Inform parents about what digital tools the class will use and how student information is handled. Sending a simple letter or email explaining the privacy protections can build trust.
• Teach students about online safety and privacy, including why it’s important not to share personal information with strangers or on public websites.
• Avoid sharing unnecessary student information online or in public spaces. For example, don’t post full names or photos of students without permission.
• Work with school administrators to ensure that the school follows all applicable privacy laws and uses secure systems for student data.

By taking these actions, teachers help create a safe digital environment that respects children’s privacy and supports learning.

What are common misunderstandings about child data privacy laws?

Here are some things people often get wrong about child data privacy laws:

• “These laws protect kids everywhere online.” Actually, child data privacy laws like COPPA mainly apply to companies operating in or targeting children in the United States. Other countries have different rules.
• “Parents don’t need to do anything because laws protect kids automatically.” Laws help, but parents still need to be involved by reviewing apps, giving permission, and teaching kids about privacy.
• “Once a parent agrees, companies can share data freely.” Permission is specific, and companies must still keep data safe and not share it without further consent.
• “If an app asks for kids’ info, it must be safe.” Unfortunately, some apps don’t follow privacy laws or ask for too much information; adults should stay alert and report concerns.
• “Only kids under 13 need privacy protection.” COPPA covers children under 13, but older kids still need guidance on safe online behavior and privacy.

Knowing the facts helps adults protect children better online.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main federal law that protects children’s online privacy?

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is the main U.S. federal law. It requires websites and apps aimed at kids under 13 to get parental permission before collecting personal information and to protect that data.

Can children under 13 give permission to share their data?

No, children under 13 cannot legally give permission themselves. Child data privacy laws require a parent or guardian to give consent before companies collect their personal information.

What kinds of personal information are protected by child data privacy laws?

Protected information includes a child’s name, birthday, address, email, phone number, photos, videos, location, and any details that identify or contact the child.

Are child data privacy laws the same in every state?

COPPA is a federal law that applies across all U.S. states, but some states have additional privacy rules that may provide extra protections. Parents should check local laws for details.

What should parents do if they think a company is breaking child data privacy laws?

Parents can report their concerns to the Federal Trade Commission through websites like [ReportFraud](#r3). They can also contact the company directly or seek legal help if needed.