Online Safety

Starting a conversation about online safety

It can be difficult to know how to start talking to your child about what they’re doing online or who they might be speaking to. But talking regularly, like you would about their day at school, will help your child feel relaxed and mean that when they do have any worries, they’re more likely to come and speak to you. It can help to: 
 

• • reassure them that you're interested in their life, offline and online. Recognise that they'll be using the internet to research homework as well talking to their friends.
  • ask your child to show you what they enjoy doing online or apps they’re using so you can understand them.
  • be positive but also open about anything you're worried about. You could say "I think this site's really good" or "I'm a little worried about things I've seen here."
  • ask them if they're worried about anything, and let them know they can come to you.
  • ask them about their friends online and how they know they are who they say they are.
  • listen for the reasons why your child wants to use apps or site you don't think are suitable, so you can talk about these together.
  • ask your child what they think's okay for children of different ages so they feel involved in the decision making.

How could my child feel talking about online safety?

For children, online life is real life. It can help to think about how your child could feel sharing what they're doing online before you talk to them.

Some emotions they could be feeling are:

• • uncomfortable
  • worried
  • annoyed
  • confused
  • happy.

Please click on the link below to see our monthly Online Safety Newsletters

Be Kind Online

Online Safety Information

Safety/Handy Guides for Parents

Below you will find some really helpful guides to social media accounts, apps and games which your child might use or access.

Please read them for some handy tips to make the most of privacy settings and to ensure your child is safe online. 

Useful Websites and Numbers