More and more children in their early years have their own tablets or borrow their parents’ devices to play games, use apps and watch their favourite TV shows.
InternetMatters.org had some fantastic advice on simple things you can do to make sure they’re staying safe online.
Top Tips for Parents and Carers
Talk and Explore Together
Discuss what the internet is and explore it with your child. Show them fun and educational activities, and reassure them to talk to you if they see anything upsetting. Download a Conversation Guide here.
Choose Safe Apps and Sites:
Select age-appropriate, safe, and educational apps and sites. Use platforms like YouTube Kids, Sky Kids, BBC iPlayerKids, and Nick Jr.
Set Up Parental Controls
Activate parental controls on home broadband and devices to restrict access to inappropriate content and prevent unauthorized purchases.
Establish Boundaries:
Set rules for internet use, including which apps and sites are allowed and how long they can be used. Use a family agreement template to get started.
Check out the InternetMatters website for more top tips!
Guide for Parents and Carers
More Useful Links
Thinkuknow by the National Crime Agency – Child Exploitation and Online Protection command (NCA-CEOP) – resources for parents and carers and children of all ages to help keep children safe online
Childnet has developed guidance for parents and carers to begin a conversation about online safety, as well as guidance on keeping under-fives safe online
Parent Info is a collaboration between Parent Zone and NCA-CEOP – support and guidance for parents and carers related to the digital world from leading experts and organisations
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) – guidance for parents and carers to help keep children safe online
UK Safer Internet Centre – tips and advice for parents and carers to keep children safe online – you can also report any harmful content found online through the UK Safer Internet Centre
Inclusive Digital Safety Hub and Online Safety Hub, created by South West Grid for Learning in partnership with Internet Matters – support and tailored advice for young people with additional learning needs and their parents or carers
Parents’ Guide to Age Ratings explains how the British Board of Film Classification rates content, and gives parents advice on choosing online content well
The Children’s Commissioner has published advice for parents on talking to your child about online sexual harassment specifically, based on input from children themselves
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