Stop the "typing" before it hurts. From avoiding exclusion in group chats to the "Screen Test" for comments, here are 20 rules for raising kind digital citizens.
In Singapore's digitally connected landscape, WhatsApp and Telegram group chats have become the new schoolyards. While these platforms offer great ways to stay in touch, the lack of face-to-face contact can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or "keyboard bravery." These rules focus on cultivating digital empathy, ensuring that your child's online interactions are as kind, inclusive, and respectful as their real-world ones.
Digital Empathy: The Top 5 Core Anchor Rules
The foundation of a kind digital presence. These five "anchors" are designed to stop cyber-bullying before it starts, teaching children that words have weight even when they are typed on a screen.
#1: The "Face-to-Face" Test 🗣
Before you hit send, ask yourself: "Would I say this to the person's face in real life?" If the answer is no, the message is too mean to be sent online.
#2: No Secret "Exclusion" Groups 🚫🤫
It is strictly forbidden to create a "sub-group" specifically to talk about or exclude someone from a main group. We use digital spaces to bring people together, not to leave them out.
#3: The "Screenshot" Awareness 📸
Assume that anything you type in a group chat can be screenshotted and shared with anyone, including teachers and parents. Never type anything you wouldn't want the whole world to see.
#4: Report, Don't Retaliate 🚩
If someone is being mean to you in a chat, do not be mean back. Take a screenshot, mute the chat, and show a parent immediately. We don't "feed the trolls."
#5: The 24-Hour "Cool Down" 🧊
If you are angry or upset, you must wait 24 hours before replying to a message. "Hot-headed" typing almost always leads to digital regret.
Group Chat Etiquette
Being part of a group chat is a social responsibility. These rules ensure that your child is a positive contributor to the group rather than a source of stress or "spam."
#6: Acknowledge New Members 👋
When a new person is added to a group chat, everyone should send a quick "Welcome!" or "Hello!" to make them feel included.
#7: No Ghosting Friends 👻
If a friend asks a direct question in a chat, try to answer it. Ignoring someone in a group chat can feel as hurtful as ignoring them in person.
#8: Respect Quiet Hours 🌙
No messaging in group chats before 7:00 AM or after 8:30 PM. We respect our friends' sleep and family time by keeping the notifications quiet.
#9: Keep it Relevant 🎯
Don't "spam" the group with endless stickers, memes, or unrelated videos. Only share things that the whole group will find interesting or helpful.
Inclusion & Anti-Exclusion
Digital exclusion is a major form of modern bullying. These rules focus on ensuring that group chats remain safe spaces where no one feels like an outsider.
#10: The "Whole Class" Rule 🏫
If you are starting a chat for a party or event, try to include everyone in the social circle or team. If you can't, don't talk about the event in the main group chat.
#11: No Inside Jokes 🤫🚫
Avoid having long conversations about "inside jokes" that only two people in a large group understand. It makes everyone else feel like they don't belong.
#12: Standing Up for Others 🛡
If you see someone being teased or left out in a chat, be the one to say, "Hey, let's be kind," or "I don't think that's funny." Being an "Upstander" matters.
#13: Exit Gracefully 🚪
If you want to leave a group chat, send a short message like, "Leaving the group to focus on my exams, see you guys in school!" This prevents people from feeling like you are mad at them.
Conflict & Tone Control
Tone is easily lost in text. These rules help children manage digital conflict without escalating the situation into a "chat war."
#14: No SHOUTING in Caps 📢
Using all capital letters is seen as shouting online. Unless you are celebrating something amazing, keep your letters in standard case.
#15: Move it Offline 📞
If a disagreement starts in a group chat, the rule is to stop typing and pick up the phone or wait to talk in person. Never "argue" in front of an audience.
#16: Apologise Quickly 🙇♂
If you realise you've said something that hurt someone's feelings, send a sincere apology immediately. Digital wounds can fester if they aren't addressed.
#17: Sarcasm Warning ⚠
Sarcasm often fails online. If you aren't 100% sure your friend will get the joke, don't send it. It's better to be clear than to be "funny" and cause hurt.
Digital Citizenship & Values
Final reminders for being a "Gracious Netizen." These rules help children understand their role in creating a kinder internet for everyone.
#18: Value Quality Over Quantity ❤
It's better to have one meaningful conversation than 50 "K" or "Lol" responses. Focus on making your words count.
#19: No "Fake News" or Rumours 🚫🗞
Never forward rumours or "juicy" secrets about other kids. If you didn't see it happen yourself, don't help spread the story.
#20: Protect the "Vibe" ✨
The final rule is to be the person who brings the "good vibes." Share a win, send a supportive message before a test, and be the kindest person in the chat.
Master Every Situation
Setting boundaries doesn't stop here. From hawker centres to screen time, explore our full collection of situational rules designed for Singaporean families.
See All Family Rules & Routines
