Online safety

There’s no better way to protect your children than by talking to them about what they do online, how they are connecting with others and if they know how to stay safe. They will already be learning about online safety and behaviour at school so why not start by asking them what they already know and what their favourite websites are? Adults need to know where young people are going online, just as they do if they’re going to a physical space. It’s important to stay connected and talk to your child about how they are using social media – keep talking to them and listening so they know you take it seriously.

Why not spend some time with them online, playing games, or watching them play? Or ask them to show you how something they use works, like Tik Tok or Snapchat? If you chat regularly to them about their online activity it’ll be easier to spot a change in their behaviour (for example, becoming upset, quiet, grumpy, secretive or anxious) which could mean they’re distressed. 

For more tips about starting a conversation, the NSPCC has great advice. You could also look at YoungScot’s advice with your child to help start the conversation.

Let your child know that they can always speak to you or another trusted family member or adult if they are feel uncomfortable or are distressed or worried by something they’ve seen online. Reassure them that they can talk to you, and make sure they know that you would never blame them for anything that might happen online.

You can also let them know that if they would prefer to speak to someone anonymously, they can call Childline Scotland on 0800 1111.

Talk to them about sharing photos and information online, and how these can be changed or misused by other people. Before you upload any pictures of your child, ask for their permission. If in doubt, don’t upload!

Make sure privacy and location settings are in order on all the devices your child uses, and that you have parental controls in place. There are a range of parental controls you can use to help protect children from accessing inappropriate content online. There’s more advice on the different kinds of controls available at the UK Safer Internet Centre, ThinkUKnow and the NSPCC website. You can also download a helpsheet from the National Parent Forum of Scotland here.

If your children are acting up or breaking the rules, it’s tempting to take away tablets or phones as a punishment. However, especially at the moment, this can make them feel anxious and cut off from their friends. Instead, try to talk to them about their behaviour. There are lots of tips on our page on coping with being a parent to help with this.