Research by the London School of Economics said although kids had more web skills than parents, they spent too much time chatting and gaming online.
The report's authors reckon kids should be encouraged to join online political discussions and learn how to build their own websites.
Researchers spoke to 14 groups of kids aged from nine to 19 for the study.
Although kids were criticised, the report also said that kids were well aware of the problems and dangers of chatting to strangers online.
The report also had a suggestion for parents.
Professor Sonia Livingstone, who wrote the report said; "Parents themselves could develop their skills more to keep up with their children."
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