Online Safety

The internet is amazing. We can play, learn, create and connect - opening up a whole world of exciting possibilities. But with the digital world changing all the time, how can you make sure your child’s staying safe?

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What children do online and through social networking.

Children and young people go online to connect with friends, and make new ones, to browse the internet for information, chat with others and play games. They may: 

• search for content on search engines like Google

• create, share, comment on or 'like' images or videos through

       apps such as Tik Toc, Instagram and Snapchat

• keep up-to-date with friends and celebrities on social

       networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter and Instagram

• live-stream videos through sites such as Facebook Live

       and Instagram Live

• communicate with others using voice and video chat, or instant

       messenger. This can take place on social networks, through messaging

       apps like Whatsapp and in some types of games

• play games through websites, apps or game consoles. They may also

       watch others playing games or stream their own game-play through sites

       such as Twitch and YouTube

When online, children and young people can learn new things, get help with homework, express themselves creatively and connect with friends and family.

There are also risks, but by understanding and talking about the dangers you can help keep your child safe online.

Social pressures advice linked to:

Online/Internet Safety - How to keep your child safe

As parents and carers of young people, the online world can confuse and worry us as our children grow up and become more independent online as well as in the real world.

How do you know that what they are doing is safe? What can I do, as a parent or carer, to help, support and guide them to ensure their online safety?

There are a number of excellent tips and advice available in helping your children stay safe online.

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For a parents guide to popular apps please read the attached guidance

https://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/your-family/online-safety/parents-guide-to-the-latest-social-media-and-instant-messaging-apps/

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Advice on social networking and messaging apps

https://www.internetmatters.org/resources/apps-guide/social-networking-and-messaging-apps/

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thinkuknow.co.uk

Thinkuknow.co.uk is a website produced by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre. CEOP works with child protection partners across the UK and overseas to identify the main threats to children and coordinates activity against these threats to bring offenders to account. Their site covers areas such as:

• What is my child doing online?

• How do I talk to my child about what they're doing online?

• What risks might my child face?

• What tools are there to help me keep my child safe?

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Thinkuknow: keeping your child safe online while they are off school

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Useful Safety Guides

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