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Keeping Children Safe Online



Introduction


In today's digital world, children are exposed to the internet from an early age. While technology offers many benefits, it also comes with risks, such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and online predators. Ensuring children’s online safety is crucial. This page provides links to reputable organizations offering expert guidance on online safety, as well as resources for setting up parental controls on various devices. By using these tools and staying informed, parents can help create a safer online experience for their children.

1. Online Safety Tips for Parents


Here are some key steps parents can take to keep their children safe online:

Encourage Open Conversations

  • - Talk to your child about the importance of online safety and encourage them to share any concerns.
  • - Teach them to recognize warning signs of inappropriate behavior or content.

Set Age-Appropriate Boundaries

  • - Use parental controls and privacy settings to restrict access to age-appropriate content.
  • - Monitor screen time and set healthy usage limits.

Teach Critical Thinking

  • - Help children understand the risks of misinformation, scams, and online grooming.
  • - Encourage them to question what they see online and verify information from trusted sources.

Social Media & Online Privacy

  • - Be aware of age requirements
  • - Review and adjust privacy settings on social media accounts.
  • - Teach children not to share personal details, such as their real name, location, or school.
  • - Discuss the risks of interacting with strangers online.

Recognise Signs of Cyberbullying

  • - Look out for changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, or reluctance to use devices.
  • - Encourage children to report any negative online experiences.

More guidance: NSPCC Online Safety

2. Trusted Resources for ParentsThe following organizations offer expert advice and tools to help parents keep children safe online:

3. Parental Control Tools & Apps

These tools help parents monitor and manage their child’s online activity:
For additional control over in-app purchases and gaming:

4. Protecting Your Child’s Privacy & Data

Children’s personal data is often collected and used by websites, apps, and advertisers. Parents should take steps to protect their child’s digital privacy:

Adjust Privacy Settings
  • - Set social media accounts to private and limit who can contact your child.
  • - Disable location sharing on apps and games.

Use Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication
  • - Encourage children to use unique passwords for different accounts.
  • - Enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Be Aware of Online Tracking & Data Collection
  • - Teach children about cookies and data tracking.
  • - Consider using privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo for younger children.

More information: ICO Children's Code

5. Reporting Harmful Content & Online Abuse

If your child encounters harmful or inappropriate content, there are organizations that can help:
Encourage children to speak up if they experience or witness online bullying, harassment, or abuse.

6. Digital Wellbeing & Screen Time Balance

Excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s mental health and sleep patterns. Encourage a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Set Boundaries for Screen Time
Promote Offline Activities
  • - Encourage hobbies that don’t involve screens, such as reading, sports, or creative projects.
  • - Set a good example by managing your own screen time habits.

More guidance: BBC Own It – Digital Wellbeing

7. Understanding and Preventing Online Radicalisation

The internet can be used by individuals and groups to spread extremist views and influence young people. While this is a relatively rare risk compared to others like cyberbullying, it’s important for parents to be aware and informed.

What Is Online Radicalisation?
Radicalisation is the process by which a person comes to support terrorism or extremist ideologies. This can happen gradually and often through online platforms including:
  • - Social media
  • - Messaging apps
  • - Gaming forums
  • - Video-sharing websites

Signs to Watch For
  • - Sudden changes in attitude or beliefs, particularly around politics or religion
  • - Becoming secretive about online activity
  • - Increased isolation or withdrawal from family and friends
  • - Talking about conspiracy theories or expressing intolerance toward others

How Parents Can Help
  • - Stay engaged – Keep regular conversations going about current events, values, and who your child interacts with online.
  • - Ask open questions – Be curious and non-judgemental when your child expresses new views.
  • - Use parental controls – Limit access to harmful content where possible and review privacy settings.
  • - Encourage critical thinking – Teach your child to question the sources of information and consider different viewpoints.
  • - Report concerns – If you are worried that your child is being exposed to extremist material, seek support early.

Where to Get Help

Final Thoughts

The internet is a valuable tool, but it also comes with risks. By staying informed, using parental controls, and having open conversations with your child, you can help them navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
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