10 Top Tips for Keeping Your Kids Safe Online
The internet is an amazing place for learning, socialising, and having fun—but just like in the real world, children need guidance to navigate it safely.
Here are my top 10 tips to help parents support their children’s digital experiences while keeping them safe and confident online.
1. Make Online Safety a Normal Conversation
Talk about online experiences just as you would about school or friends. Encourage open discussions so your child feels comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns about what they see online.
2. Set Age-Appropriate Boundaries
Use parental controls and ensure children only access platforms, games, and content suitable for their age. Just as you wouldn’t let a young child roam the streets alone, don’t let them explore the digital world without safeguards.
3. Balance Screen Time with a Healthy Play Diet
A mix of activities—including outdoor play, social time, and creative pursuits—balances screen time. Encourage a variety of play experiences to support well-rounded development.
4. Teach Critical Thinking Skills
Help children recognise fake news, scams, and misleading content. Ask questions like, “Does this look real?” and “Who made this and why?” to develop their digital literacy and scepticism.
5. Stay Involved in Their Digital World
Know what games they play, what apps they use, and who they interact with online. Join in their favourite games or ask them to teach you about their digital interests—it builds trust and awareness.
6. Keep Personal Information Private
Teach children never to share personal details like their full name, school, or address online. Help them understand that not everyone online is who they say they are.
7. Encourage Kindness and Respect Online
Just as in real life, children should treat others online with kindness. Talk about cyberbullying and how to respond if they see or experience negative behaviour.
8. Model Good Digital Habits
Children learn from watching us. Set an example by using technology mindfully, putting devices away during family time, and showing how to engage positively online.
9. Use Technology to Support, Not Replace, Relationships
Online interactions should enhance—not replace—face-to-face friendships and family time. Encourage social connections in person as well as through digital means.
10. Keep Up with the Changing Digital World
Technology evolves quickly, so stay informed about trends, risks, and opportunities in the digital world. Being proactive will help you guide your child confidently and positively.
When used wisely, the internet is a powerful tool that can enhance children’s learning and creativity. By fostering open conversations, setting sensible boundaries, and staying engaged, parents can help children develop a positive and safe relationship with the digital world.