There was no standing behind lecterns or in front of powerpoints, as the nation's top cop spoke to year six youngsters from 13 Canberra primary schools who attended the AFP's first Missing Youth Forum at the Australian Institute of Sport.

Friday was International Missing Children's Day, a day to remember children who are missing and to provide support to loved ones who continue their search.

Mr Colvin explained to the group that, of the 38,000 Australians who go missing each year, two-thirds are under 18. And young people aged 13 to 17 are six times more likely to go missing than the general population.

Mr Colvin told the youngsters that there were many rewarding parts of being a police officer but few things gave greater satisfaction than helping end the anguish of a family who has a loved one missing.

The Commissioner said young people today faced much greater pressure than he did as a primary school student.

"The digital age has given rise to cyber bullying and kids today seem to never switch off in terms of staying connected,'' he said.

"My advice to parents is to stay engaged. Be a part of your child's life on social media and make sure your kids know who to turn to for help if they are feeling life's pressures."