The internet plays a huge role in children’s lives, and while they have grown up surrounded by technology, they may not always recognise the risks that come with using it.
From gaming and social media to messaging apps and video-sharing platforms, children encounter both opportunities and challenges online.
By staying involved, having regular conversations, and providing guidance, parents and carers can help children stay safe, confident, and informed while making the most of their online experiences. Below are some key tips to consider when supporting your child’s online activities and helping them stay safe online.
Talk About Life Online
One of the best ways to help keep children safe online is to make online safety a normal family conversation.
What to do
- Ask your child to show you the games they play, apps they use and videos they enjoy.
- Talk openly about online risks such as oversharing, bullying, unwanted contact and inappropriate content.
- Encourage children to come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable or worried.
What not to Do
- Don't wait until a problem occurs before discussing online safety.
- Don't make conversations feel like an interrogation.
Help Children Make Safe Choices
Children benefit from clear boundaries and age-appropriate guidance.
What to Do
- Encourage the use of age-appropriate apps and platforms.
- Explain why age restrictions exist and why some services may not yet be suitable.
- Agree family expectations around screen time, privacy and respectful online behaviour.
What not to Do
- Don’t feel pressured by phrases like “last few left”
- Don’t send money without buyer protection
Use Available Safety Tools
Parental controls and privacy settings can provide an additional layer of protection.
What To Do
- Enable parental controls, privacy settings and safe search options where available.
- Check whether your internet provider offers family-friendly filters or additional protection features.
- Review video call and messaging settings to ensure children communicate only with trusted contacts.
What not to Do
- Don't leave privacy settings at their default values.
- Don't forget to review settings as children get older.
Quick Safety Check: Do & Don’t
DO
- Keep online safety conversations ongoing
- Use parental controls and privacy settings
- Encourage critical thinking
- Stay involved in your child's online activities
- Create an environment where children feel comfortable asking for help
DON’T
- Assume children automatically know how to stay safe online
- Ignore age ratings and platform restrictions
- Overlook changes in behaviour that may indicate online issues
- Rely solely on technology to manage online risks
- Wait until there is a problem before getting involved
Final Thought
The internet offers incredible opportunities for learning, creativity and connection. Helping children enjoy those benefits safely starts with open conversations, sensible safeguards and ongoing support. Celebrate the positives, stay involved and keep the conversation going.
To learn more about these points, Get Safe Online has produced further guidance for parents and carers which can be accessed below:
