The internet is an important part of children's lives. It provides opportunities to learn, play, create and connect with others, but it is also important that children understand how to stay safe online.

As a school, we teach children about online safety and encourage them to talk to a trusted adult if something they see or experience online makes them feel uncomfortable, worried or unsafe.

Parents and carers also play an important role in helping children develop safe and positive online habits.

Practical advice for parents and carers

There are lots of ways you can help your child stay safe online:

• Talk regularly with your child about what they do online and who they interact with.

• Make sure you know which apps, games and websites your child is using.

• Check age ratings and the minimum age requirements for apps and platforms.

• Use parental controls and privacy settings on devices, apps and games.

• Encourage your child to keep passwords private and use strong, secure passwords.

• Remind your child not to share personal information, photographs or their location with people they do not know.

• Encourage them to tell you or another trusted adult if something online worries or upsets them.

• Remember that parental controls are helpful, but regular conversations are just as important.

Helpful online safety resources

GOV.UK – Kids Online Safety

The UK Government's online safety hub provides practical advice for parents and carers, including guidance on parental controls, talking to children about online safety and what to do if something goes wrong.

 

Internet Matters

Internet Matters provides practical advice for parents and carers, including age-specific guidance, information about popular apps and games, and advice on setting parental controls.

 

NSPCC – Online Safety

The NSPCC provides advice about online safety, including social media, online gaming, parental controls, inappropriate content and online abuse.

 

UK Safer Internet Centre

The UK Safer Internet Centre provides advice and resources for parents and carers on topics including social media, online gaming, cyberbullying, harmful content, parental controls and reporting concerns.

 

Childline

Childline provides free and confidential support for children and young people. Children can get advice about online bullying, social media, online relationships and anything else that may be worrying them.

Call 0800 1111 

 

If something goes wrong

If your child sees something upsetting, receives an inappropriate message or experiences bullying or other harmful behaviour online, try to remain calm and reassure them that they have done the right thing by telling you.

You can:

1. Talk to your child and listen to what has happened.

2. Save evidence, such as screenshots, where appropriate.

3. Block or report the account or content using the platform's reporting tools.

4. Seek further advice or support if you are concerned about your child's safety.

If you are worried about online abuse or grooming, you can report concerns through CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection).

If you are concerned about a child's safety or wellbeing, please also contact the school using our usual safeguarding arrangements.

Remember

There is no need to be an expert in technology to talk to your child about online safety.

Keep talking, keep checking and make sure your child knows they can always come to you if something doesn't feel right.