DNA and Protect Children continue partnership for the benefit of children’s online safety skills

The digital era has posed new questions for educators regarding children’s safety and time management. Nowadays, parents need skills to guide children who are exploring the online world to stay safe. As the main partner this year, DNA supports Protect Childrens workshops on online safety skills for schoolchildren. In these Stop, Slow & Go workshops, the kids learn from professionals how to handle and prepare themselves for various online content.

“Smartphones are essential and useful tools. They allow us to learn new things and stay connected with family and friends. However, the content can also be addictive and harmful to children and young people. That’s why it’s crucial to learn digital safety skills from a young age. By supporting these workshops, we offer kids and educators ways to act smart in the digital world,” says Vilhelmiina Wahlbeck, SVP, Communications, Sustainability and Brand Development at DNA.

“Research evidence and everyday observations indicate that it is crucial to encourage children to limit their use of digital devices. Children should not be left alone to explore digital environments. The presence of a safe adult, and practicing digital safety skills together go a long way in protecting the child,” says Nina Vaaranen-Valkonen, Executive Director at Protect Children.

Puhelinparkki gains popularity among families, schools and sports clubs

Developed together in 2023, the Puhelinparkki (parking lot for smart phones) is rapidly gaining popularity. It helps protect children in digital environments and supports the entire family in managing their use of digital devices. Families have given positive feedback about these playful-looking “parks,” which genuinely assist in sensible smartphone usage. Children readily start using the Puhelinparkki, and often the whole family realizes how pleasant it is when everyone is truly present.

“Thousands of families already use Puhelinparkki, and recently, sports clubs and schools have also ordered them. Their popularity is clearly on the rise. At DNA, we are delighted that this issue is approached positively—through mutual agreements and by listening to children,” says Vilhelmiina Wahlbeck.

The Puhelinparkki enables regular breaks from digital device usage for both children and the entire family. It fosters togetherness, shared activities, and conversations among family members. Especially in the evenings, the Puhelinparkki facilitates relaxation and better sleep.  Puhelinparkki can be ordered free of charge from DNA’s website.

Media Inquiries:

(in Finnish only) www.dna.fi/puhelinparkki
(in Finnish only) Etätyöpajat koululaisille >>

Vilhelmiina Wahlbeck, SVP, Communications, Sustainability and Brand Development, DNA Plc, tel. +358 (0)44 040 1671, vilhelmiina.wahlbeck@dna.fi 

Nina Vaaranen-Valkonen, Executive Director, Protect Children, tel. +358 (0)40 747 8829, nina.vaaranen-valkonen@suojellaanlapsia.fi

DNA Corporate Communications, tel. +358 (0)44 044 8000, communications@dna.fi