Children and teenagers are increasingly using information and communication technologies (ICTs), as these technologies are now widespread in the home, school and community. Youngsters are using the internet, mobile phones and gaming platforms in order to be informed, educated and entertained.

Despite the tremendous opportunities offered by ICT, researchers, policy makers and child protection experts are also demanding attention for the various risks youngsters may encounter. While they are often depicted as techno-savvies, questions rise about young people’s competences to assess risks, cope with negative experiences and maximise opportunities offered by new technologies. Moreover, the roles played by parents, educators, children and adolescent protection experts as well as the mass media in addressing specific issues and empowering young users, receive growing attention.

Therefore this international conference intends to focus on the increasing body of empirical knowledge and fundamental research, as well as on policy and other initiatives dealing with the opportunities offered by ICT for children and adolescents. It furthermore will focus on how to cope with specific (new) risks. Special attention will be devoted to emerging social, ethical, psychological and legal issues within the context of ICT and minors.