Talk with your child about the games they enjoy playing and the videos they love to watch. Doing these things together is a great way to explore how amazing the internet can be.
Explain to your child that being kind and respectful helps make the internet fun and safe for everyone. Yes, even their little brother if he’s beating them on their favourite game! This is something you can show them in your own words and actions online too.
Your child will have to make lots of choices when they’re using technology and the internet, so talk regularly about what they can do to keep themselves safe. This might be keeping personal information like their name or school private and never agreeing to meet up with someone they only know online. The earlier you start these conversations the better equipped your child will be as they grow older.
Online friendships can be difficult to manage, but a simple step to help keep your child safe is making sure they know that they are in control. Discuss how they might respond if someone says or does something that makes them feel uncomfortable. Remind them that they never have to do something just because an online friend has told them to and that they can come to you for help and advice.
The most important thing you can do to support your child online is let them know you’re there to support them. Talk regularly about all the points above, and more! Make sure they know that if anything online makes them worried, upset or uncomfortable, then they can come to you for help – and a hug!
Think about how your actions and words online can make others laugh and smile, instead of feeling hurt or angry.
When posting, gaming, or talking to others, keep your personal information safe and do not click on unexpected links. Most importantly, always tell an adult if an online friend asks to meet up.
No means no – do not push other people to do something that they’re not comfortable with. If someone is pressuring you online, remember that you can always say no and tell an adult you trust.
Lots of games and apps have handy tools like the block or report button that can help you keep yourself and your friends safe. Chat with your friends to make sure everyone knows where these are and how to use them on the games you play together.
There are lots of adults in your life who want to support you in having a safe and enjoyable time when you’re online. Always speak to one of them if anyone or anything online makes you or a friend worried, upset or uncomfortable.
Are you worried about online sexual abuse or the way someone has been communicating with you online?
Make a report to one of CEOP's Child Protection Advisors
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