Abstract

A comparative analysis of data from the Global Kids Online research network (2016) on access, use and digital skills of children in Brazil and Chile is presented. The results show that high frequency users tend to belong to the highest socioeconomic groups. Girls in general, and boys and girls with higher incomes, perceive more risks on the Internet. On the other hand, the most common areas of use are linked to learning and social life. The type of guidance children receive is important: active mediation strategies at home and at school are essential to enhance their digital opportunities, while restrictive mediation tends to reduce them. Inequalities are observed in parental mediation by age, gender, and socioeconomic group. These results contribute to the discussion on promoting digital opportunities and reducing risks.