Keeping Kids Safe Online: A Parent’s Starter Guide

The internet is a wonderful place to learn and play, and like anywhere else, children need a few clear rules to stay safe. The most important tool isn’t an app. It’s an open, ongoing conversation.

Agree on a few clear rules

• Never share your full name, address, school or phone number online.
• Keep passwords secret from everyone except your parents.
• Only talk to people online that you know in real life.
• Ask before downloading an app or game, or before buying anything.
• Think before you post: once something is online, it can be hard to remove.

Make it easy to tell you

Tell your child that if anything online makes them feel upset, scared or confused, they should come to you, and that they won’t be in trouble for telling. Children who fear losing their device often keep problems secret.

Set up a healthy routine

• Keep devices in shared family spaces for younger children.
• Agree on screen-free times, such as meals and the hour before bed.
• Use parental controls and privacy settings as a support, not a replacement for talking.
• Explore apps and games together first, so you know what your child is using.

Teach kindness, too

Being safe online also means being kind. Talk about how words feel to the person reading them, and what to do if they see someone being unkind: don’t join in, and tell a trusted adult.

Our Digital Citizenship course helps children make smart, safe choices online through real-life situations. Try the first lesson free, no sign-up needed.