The internet is amazing. Children can play, learn, create and connect - opening up a whole world of exciting possibilities. But with the digital world changing all the time, how can you make sure your child’s staying safe?
That’s where we come in. Whether you’re an online expert or you’re not sure where to start, our tools and advice will help you keep your child safe.
Children and young people go online to connect with friends, and make new ones, to browse the internet for information, chat with others and play games. They may:
- search for content on search engines like Google
- create, share, comment on or 'like' images or videos through apps such as Musical.ly, Instagram and Snapchat
- keep up-to-date with friends and celebrities on social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter and Instagram
- live-stream videos through sites such as Facebook Live and Instagram Live
- communicate with others using voice and video chat, or instant messenger. This can take place on social networks, through messaging apps like Whatsapp and in some types of games
- play games through websites, apps or game consoles. They may also watch others playing games or stream their own game-play through sites such as Twitch and YouTube
When online, children and young people can learn new things, get help with homework, express themselves creatively and connect with friends and family.
There are also risks, but by understanding and talking about the dangers you can help keep your child safe online.
How safe are the sites, apps and games your child uses?
Run in partnership with O2, Net Aware offers parents useful information about each social network, including the age guidance for users.
Talk to someone about online safety
Whether you want to set up parental controls, adjust privacy settings or get advice on social networks, experts from the free O2 & NSPCC helpline are here to help.
Helping children to stay safe online
How to set up parental controls
Innocent searches sometimes reveal not so innocent results. So if you’re worried about what your child is searching for online, who they’re talking to or what they’re seeing, we can help.
Share Aware
Talking to your child about staying safe online
We have the advice you need to start the conversation.
Online games: helping children to play safe
Learn about the risks of online gaming, how to choose the right games for your child and ways to keep them safe.
Sign up to our Icebreaker emails
Get our series of 6 emails, packed full of useful tips, advice and activities to help you have conversations with your child about staying safe online.
Technology, toys and the internet: Keeping your child safe
Read our tips on how to keep your child safe when using internet-connected devices.
Video chat, sharing and streaming apps
Minecraft: a parent’s guide
Who knows more about the world of online?
Get the whole family together with Amazon Alexa and take the O2 and NSPCC Parents vs Kids quiz. See who knows the most about the online world and learn a bit more about staying safe.
Work or volunteer with children and families?
Visit NSPCC Learning for information, resources and training to help you safeguard and protect children and young people across the UK.