Young children may come across inappropriate content or begin to copy what older children do online. Schoolwork and homework are often web-based, meaning children need to be more digitally savvy as they get older.
Supporting your child
To help your child navigate the online world safely and confidently, here are some practical ways to stay involved and supportive:
- agreeing boundaries on what your child can and cannot do online
- explore together, let them take the lead and show you what sites they like to visit
- install the right level of parental control
- stay involved with your child by having them use their devices in the same room as you are
Useful websites
Internet Matters has an internet safety checklist with practical tips to help children aged 6 to 10 to have a safer online experience.
NSPCC has a range of resources and online safety guides including how to set up parental controls.
UK Safer Internet Centre has help with screen time, cyber flashing, reporting, livestreaming and much more.
Online safety and screen time: A guide for parents
In today’s digital world, children and young people are growing up surrounded by screens - from smartphones and tablets to laptops and gaming consoles. While technology offers incredible opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection, it also brings risks that parents need to understand and manage. Helping your child stay safe online is just as important as teaching them to cross the road or swim.
Understanding the risks
Children may not fully grasp the dangers of the online world. From inappropriate content and cyberbullying to online grooming and privacy breaches, the internet can expose young users to harmful experiences. That’s why it’s vital to stay informed and involved in your child’s digital life.
Setting boundaries around screen time
Healthy screen habits start with clear boundaries:
- create screen-free zones like bedrooms and mealtimes to encourage balance
- set time limits based on age and activity - educational use may differ from gaming or social media
- use parental controls to manage access and monitor usage
- model good behaviour by limiting your own screen time and engaging in offline activities
Talking about online safety
Try to have open conversations:
- use age-appropriate language to explain risks like strangers online, scams, and sharing personal information
- encourage honesty - let your child know they can come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable
- discuss digital footprints - help them understand that what they post can last forever.
Practical safety tips
Here are some simple steps to help protect your child online:
- use strong passwords and teach your child not to share them
- keep software and apps updated to reduce security vulnerabilities
- enable privacy settings on social media and games
- avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking or logging into accounts
- teach critical thinking - not everything online is true or safe
Age-specific guidance
Different ages require different approaches:
- under 5s: Limit screen time and supervise all usage. Choose high-quality, ad-free content
- 6-10 years: Begin teaching online etiquette and safety. Use child-friendly search engines and apps
- 11-13 years: Monitor social media use and discuss peer pressure, cyberbullying, and online identity
- 14+ years: Encourage independence while staying involved. Talk about digital reputation, sexting, and mental health
Final thoughts
Online safety isn’t about banning technology - it’s about empowering children to use it wisely. By staying engaged, setting boundaries, and fostering open communication, you’ll help your child navigate the digital world with confidence and care.
For more support, visit trusted resources like Internet Matters, NSPCC Online Safety, or speak to your child’s school or local parenting hub.