The Online World is Part of Everyday Life
For today’s children and young people, being online is a normal part of everyday life. They use technology to learn, complete homework, communicate with friends, play games, watch videos, listen to music and explore their interests.
Most online experiences are positive and help children to learn new skills, build friendships and express themselves creatively.
Like the offline world, however, there are also risks. Our aim is not to stop children using technology, but to help them develop the skills and confidence to use it safely and responsibly.
What Do Children Do Online?
Children and young people use technology in many different ways, including:
- chatting with friends through messaging apps
- watching videos and live streams
- playing online games
- creating and sharing content
- using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support learning
- completing schoolwork and research
- joining online communities based on their interests
Many children move easily between different apps and games throughout the day, often using several at the same time.
Why Children May Not Tell Adults When Something Goes Wrong
If something upsetting happens online, many children keep it to themselves.
They may worry that:
- they will get into trouble
- their phone or games console will be taken away
- they will lose access to social media
- adults will not understand
- the situation will become worse
One of the most important messages you can give your child is:
“You can always tell me if something goes wrong online. I will listen and help you.”
Children are much more likely to seek help if they know they will be supported rather than blamed.
Building Positive Digital Habits
Helping children stay safe online is about building good habits, not constantly checking what they are doing.
Encourage your child to:
- think before posting online
- keep personal information private
- treat other people with kindness and respect
- question information they see online
- tell a trusted adult if something worries them
- take regular breaks from screens
These habits will help them throughout their lives.
Show an Interest in Your Child’s Online Life
One of the best ways to protect your child online is simply to stay interested.
Ask them to show you:
- the games they enjoy
- the videos they like watching
- the creators they follow
- how their favourite app works
- something they have created online
Children often enjoy sharing their interests when adults are curious and non-judgemental.
Technology Changes Quickly
New apps, games and online trends appear all the time.
It is impossible for parents and carers to know everything.
Instead of trying to keep up with every new platform, focus on helping your child make safe choices wherever they are online.
The same principles apply whether they are using social media, gaming, AI tools or messaging apps:
- be kind
- protect personal information
- think critically
- ask for help if something feels wrong
Start Regular Conversations
Talking about online safety should be an everyday conversation, not something that only happens when there is a problem.
You could ask questions such as:
- What was the funniest thing you saw online today?
- What games are you enjoying at the moment?
- Have you learned anything interesting online recently?
- Have you ever blocked or reported someone?
- Would you know what to do if something online made you feel uncomfortable?
Short, regular conversations often work better than one long discussion.
Setting Family Expectations
Every family is different, but it can help to agree to some simple expectations together.
For example:
- devices are put away during family meals
- phones are charged outside bedrooms overnight
- everyone speaks respectfully online
- personal information is kept private
- children tell an adult if something worries them
When children help create these expectations, they are more likely to follow them.
Remember
You do not need to know every app or every online trend to help keep your child safe.
The most effective online safety tool is a strong relationship where your child feels able to talk openly with you.
By staying interested, listening without judgement and keeping conversations going, you are helping your child build the confidence to navigate the online world safely.
External links to include
Internet Matters – Age-specific online safety advice
https://www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/
Practical advice tailored to different age groups, including recommended settings and guidance for parents.
NSPCC – Talking to Your Child About Online Safety
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/talking-child-online-safety/
Practical tips on starting conversations about online safety and building trust.
Thinkuknow (CEOP) – Parents
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/
Advice from the National Crime Agency on helping children stay safe online.
Childnet – Parents and Carers
https://www.childnet.com/help-and-advice/parents-and-carers/
Guidance on social media, gaming, digital wellbeing and supporting children online.
Internet Matters – Digital Family Agreement
https://www.internetmatters.org/resources/family-agreement/
A free family agreement template that parents can complete with their child to agree expectations around technology use.