Online safety
Children and young people spend a lot of time online – it can be a great way for them to socialise, explore and have fun. But children also face risks like cyber bulling or seeing content that’s inappropriate.
On this page you will find some resources that can help you to keep your children safe online.
The 4 D’s
Supporting, setting up and implementing the 4 D’s at home can be helpful:
- Digital free zones – keep technology out of bedrooms if we can, maybe use it in a family room, identify early on where technology is not allowed in the home
- Digital role models – parents and carers lead by example online with digital usage
- Digital sunset – ideally young people need to come away from technology 1 hour before they go to sleep but pick your battles. What time do you think is appropriate for your children to come away from technology to get a good night’s sleep?
- Digital detox – as a family try a gadget free day or hour. Try no technology after 6pm or a certain time, have a break before breakfast or in the morning, or have the dinner table as a digital free zone
External Resources
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP)
Are you worried about online sexual abuse or the way someone has been communicating with your children online? Make a report to one of CEOP's Child Protection Advisors.
CEOP provides practical information about sexual abuse and sexual exploitation for children, young people, and their parents, carers and professionals. The website also offers online safety tips by age range.
Childnet have a host of resources for schools, parents and carers and young people.