Parenting in the digital age presents new challenges, especially with kids spending more time on screens and social media evolving rapidly. Authorities are warning parents about emojis used by kids as code for dangerous behavior, such as the horse emoji 🐴, which refers to the drug ketamine.

Kids are increasingly exposed to online risks, including drug abuse and radical ideologies. Some emojis have hidden meanings: for example, the alien, skull, or demon mask represent MDMA, the snowflake emoji stands for cocaine, and cannabis is symbolized by the maple leaf or tree. These symbols can also be tied to extremist movements, as shown in the Netflix series Adolescence, which highlights the impact of the manosphere and incel culture on young boys.

To protect their children, parents should stay informed about emoji meanings, talk openly about internet risks, monitor digital activity, and use parental controls to filter harmful content. Although the internet offers valuable resources, it’s essential to be aware of its dangers.