The internet is a big part of all our lives. For children and young people, it’s something they use on a daily basis, whether they’re using it for schoolwork, playing online games, or connecting with friends.
Parents and carers play a vital role in helping them stay safe online, however, it may feel like a strange new world for many. This page offers parents and carers advice and tips on how to help their children stay safe online.
1. Talk openly and often
Start conversations early and keep them going. Ask your child:
- What apps and games do you enjoy?
- Who do you talk to online?
- Have you ever seen something that made you feel uncomfortable?
Let them know they can always come to you with questions or concerns.
2. Set boundaries that work for your family
- Agree on screen time limits and device-free zones (like mealtimes or bedtime).
- Use parental controls to manage access to age-appropriate content.
- Keep younger children’s devices in shared spaces so you can stay involved.
3. Teach safe sharing
Children may not realise how quickly things can spread online. Help them understand:
- Never share personal details like their full name, school, address, or passwords.
- Think before posting photos or videos. Once it’s online, it’s hard to take back.
4. Know the apps and games they use
Take time to explore the platforms your child uses. Look at:
- Age ratings and privacy settings.
- Who can contact them or see their content.
- Whether the app has reporting or blocking features.
5. Encourage critical thinking
Help your child spot red flags:
- Not everything online is true. Talk about fake news and scams.
- People online aren’t always who they say they are.
- If something feels wrong, it probably is - trust your instincts.
6. Be a safe space
Let your child know:
- They won’t get in trouble for telling you something that worries them.
- You’re there to help, not judge.
- It’s okay to make mistakes, what matters is learning from them.
7. Stay informed
Online trends change quickly. Stay up to date by:
- Visiting trusted websites like Internet Matters or NSPCC Online Safety to keep up to date with potential hazards.
- Talking to other parents or your child’s school.
- Attending online safety workshops or webinars.
8. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is becoming a regular part of children’s online experiences. From homework apps to creative tools, AI can offer exciting opportunities for learning and play. It also brings risks, especially when children aren’t sure what’s real, who they’re talking to, or how AI works.
There is lots of help and advice on AI at the NSPCC website Talking to children about AI | NSPCC
Take the online NSPCC
Does your child know how to stay safe online? Test their knowledge with this the Online safety quiz from the NSPCC.
Create a links to the following websites
Helpful Resources for Parents
- Keeping children safe online | NSPCC
- Thinkuknow for Parents
- Report Remove | Childline Report Remove is here to help young people under 18 in the UK to confidentially report sexual images and videos of themselves and remove them from the internet.
- CEOP Safety Centre
