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You're a good dad, Mike! I do the same with every kid in my life ("you can call me for anything from a ride to abortion money and I will not judge") and I am always so happy when one of them takes me up on it for something small because it means they won't hesitate for something bigger.

Tangent, but it's good to practice asking for small help periodically (esp important for those of us poor/vulnerable to consider). The ability to ask and receive help is a skill that needs practice, like any other, and it lets you vet poss helpers before a real crisis (bc some WILL show red flags).

This is a very good point! (And especially with kids, to bring it back to the topic at hand, modeling "asking for help when you need it rather than projecting the image of being invulnerable" is a very important thing, because it teaches them it's normal and expected!)

... as a signal that you clearly need help, not having someone judging your actions. It also probably helps that I try not to be particularly judgmental about their choices, but to be a supportive Dad. But I have told them, specifically, how other kids have gotten in trouble online, and...

... how the biggest mistake is almost always feeling they have no one they can talk to about it and few choices on how to get out of whatever situation they've gotten into.

I'd like to think your kids will remember this fondly as they grow up. I vividly remember my parents unconditional offers of support, no matter what. "While you're not supposed to have access to alcohol, at a party, drunk and need help ? Please call us, we'd rather help you than the alternatives."

What are the examples you've highlighted?

So much of this is uncharted territory, both for the kids and for Millennial/Gen X parents who didn’t deal with any of this when we were their age. Open communication, discussing relevant news at family meals, and non judgement are all excellent parenting that can help to navigate unfamiliar waters.

That is very similar to what I've tell my kids about needing a ride because intoxicated, or if with a driver who is -- that they can *always* call me for a ride at any hour or distance, no questions asked. Great example, I'll extend your online (and offline) advice to them as well.