Children are growing up in a world with a bigger range of online activities than ever before and it is sometimes very hard for both children and adults to know how to stay safe.
In order to reduce the risks online, parents can set controls which also reduce the risk to parents when children accidentally spend online money! Online safety is not just about protecting children from some of the dangers of the internet – it is also about helping them manage their use of technology and most of the parental controls allow adults to set a maximum time for the use of a device or app.
Internet Matters is a site paid for by many British companies. It has advice on adding parental controls as well as on most aspects of online safety. Parental controls will only help keep children safe. The best safety feature that a child has is their parent or carer. Take the time to talk to your child about the apps and games they are using and don’t be afraid to say no sometimes!
The NSPCC provide advice to parents and have a free helpline on 0808 800 5002.
ThinkUKnow is the website aimed at children and their parents from the National Crime Agency. It has lots of useful suggestions and advice on how to report issues. It also has lots of games and activities including Jessie and Friends for the younger children and Band Runner for the older ones.
Many children will at times suffer from online bullying. It is really important that they have someone they can talk to and know that it is not acceptable. Most apps and sites will have systems in place that allow bullying to be reported. Your child’s school may be able to help.
Children can call Childline for advice on anything that is worrying them. If you are concerned a criminal offence has taken place regarding online activity, please contact the Police.
Here are some factsheets to support you to keep your child safe online:
10 tips to help your child stay safe online
