You don’t have to be an expert to have a handle on your child’s online world. Develop an open dialogue so that you can talk with your kids about the benefits and dangers of the Internet. Cultivate an interest in their online activities—their favourite websites, online games, and interests. And don’t be afraid to ask your children who they are talking to online and what they are talking about.
Take advantage of the software that exists to help parents manage their children’s computer experience. In only a few minutes, parental control software like Safe Eyes or Net Nanny, for example, can block inappropriate websites, restrict the amount of time that your kids use the Internet and monitor their Instant Messenger chats to protect against predators. You’re not prying or censoring: you’re helping your children manage their experiences in a whole new world, and that’s your job as a parent.
The National Online Safety website provides access to free downloadable guides to help parents keep their children safe whilst using online social media such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram, etc. You can find these and more in their Guides section.
Download advice on keeping children and young people safe online here: Social Media and Teens – The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Kids Safe Online
Has someone done something online that has made you or a child or young person you know, feel worried or unsafe?
Make a report to one of CEOP’s experienced Child Protection Advisors.
Online Safety Tips for Parents: Cyberbullying / Identity and Self Esteem / Digital Footprint / Security and Privacy
Here are some step-by-step guides to setting parental controls on your child’s mobile phone to keep our youngsters safer from cyber-bullying, sexting and grooming.
Please be aware that controls alone won’t do the job, we need to talk to our youngsters about what is happening in their world and if anything is upsetting them. Don’t forget you can always report any issues to CEOP.
3 / BT / EE / O2 / SKY / TalkTalk / TalkTalkMobile / TescoMobile / VirginMedia / VirginMobile / Vodafone