Keeping your child safe online
The NSPCC are campaigning for the government to introduce new legislation to make the internet safer for children. Please follow the link to sign the petition.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-we-do/campaigns/wild-west-web/
Using the Internet safely.
The Internet is a fantastic source of fun a learning, but it's worth following some simple rules to help your children stay safe online.
- Always sit with young children when they use the internet.
- There are plenty of safe places for children to play and learn on the web. Find and save them as shortcuts.
- Adjust browser settings and filters to protect children from unsuitable sites.
- Get older children to use the computer, laptop or tablet in a family room or a place you share.
- Talk to your child about how to stay safe online and let them know they can talk to you if they find themselves in any sort of trouble.
Children and social media.
Nearly all social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, Musical.ly and Skype have a minimum age of 13 to access and use their services. Whatsapp now has a minimum age of 16.
As an adult, you should consider carefully the impact of anything you share on your own social media about your child. For example, could your post identify them to strangers or compromise their safety.
Apps on smartphones and tablets.
Many children now use apps on smartphones and tablets. Some of these devices have a child mode that stop children leaving the app they are using and accessing other things accidentally.
Some apps have 'in-app purchases' that require a payment to get extra features or progress in the game. Some devices have parental controls that require a password to be entered before a purchase can be made.
If your device has these features, consider turning them on.
Weblinks for Keeping Safe Online
Online safety advice for all ages groups, parents & carers..
Share pictures of your children safely online
Setting parental controls on various game consoles
Block or limit specific apps and features on your Apple devices.
Switch on YouTube safety Mode
How to set up filters on your home internet
A guide for parents and carers from Gov.uk
Your guide to the social networks your children use
Up to date guides for social media apps and platforms