Helping you keep your children safe online this festive season.
The holidays are a magical time, and with new devices often appearing under the tree, it’s the perfect opportunity to set up strong foundations for online safety. Here are some key tips to ensure a safe and fun experience for your family.
1. Getting Started with New Devices
Whether it’s a tablet, smartphone, gaming console, or laptop, here are the essentials:
- Create User Profiles: Set up individual accounts for your child with age-appropriate restrictions.
- Install Updates: Make sure the device’s software is up-to-date to protect against security vulnerabilities.
- Enable Screen Time Limits: Many devices, such as iPads, Android phones, and gaming systems, have built-in tools to set daily screen limits.
2. Setting Parental Controls
Parental controls help you manage what your child can access:
- App and Game Restrictions: Use your device’s settings or platforms like Google Play, iOS, and Xbox to block inappropriate apps or games.
- Filter Content: Activate filters to block adult content on browsers like Chrome or Safari.
- Monitor Purchases: Disable in-app purchases or link purchases to your account to prevent surprise bills!
For guidance on specific devices, visit platforms like Internet Matters or NSPCC.
3. Chatting Online: Staying Safe in Virtual Spaces
New devices often mean access to online chat via social media, games, or apps. Help your child navigate these spaces safely:
- Privacy Settings: Ensure your child’s profiles are set to private, so only approved friends can contact them.
- Understand the Risks: Teach them to recognize grooming, cyberbullying, and scams.
- Safe Sharing: Remind children not to share personal information, such as their location or school.
Encourage an open dialogue about online experiences. If something makes them uncomfortable, they should feel safe coming to you.
4. Helpful Resources for Parents
- National Online Safety: Free guides on apps, games, and trends.
- CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command): Report concerns about inappropriate contact.
- Be Internet Legends by Google: Fun, interactive safety training for children.
Together, We Can Make the Online World Safer! Take this time to sit with your child, explore their new device together, and establish a positive conversation about staying safe online.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards
Karen Harris
Designated Safeguarding Lead
