Internet safety tips for parents and children

CELEBRATED in more than 180 countries worldwide, today, February 6, marks the 21st anniversary of Safer Internet Day, which has become a landmark global event in the online safety calendar.

The theme for Safer Internet Day 2024 is ‘Tech in our World’, and through a series of events taking place in schools and organisations across Ireland, will explore the role of digital technology in young people’s lives, their views on new and emerging technology, and the changes they would like to see enacted online.

While all families have their own unique circumstances, many parents have similar concerns when it comes to their child’s use of technology. There are some simple steps you can take to help your child’s engagement with digital technology and the internet.

Start the conversation

One of the most effective ways to ensure that your child or teenager has a positive experience online is to have an open, and ongoing conversation with them. Talk to them about what they do online, and reassure them that if anything happens that they are uncomfortable with, they should not feel embarrassed or afraid to speak to you about it.

If your child feels like they can talk to you about their online activities without judgement, or fear of the consequences, it will lead to more honesty, and they will be better equipped to deal with any negative experiences.

For parents of young children, it is never too early to think about their online safety. Even if you are only beginning to discover the internet together, have a conversation with them about the important things to look out for, such as who they talk to online, and about sharing personal information.

Privacy

Children and teenagers are documenting and sharing lots of information about their lives online, and may not be fully aware of the potential risks or the impact it may have on their online reputation.

Talk to them about checking their privacy settings regularly. Many social network accounts are ‘public’ by default, meaning that anyone can potentially see your child’s posts or pictures. However, it is a good idea to remind them that even with the tightest privacy controls, content that is posted online can very easily be copied and shared to a wider audience that they cannot control.

Encourage your child to be familiar with the blocking and reporting features on platforms they use. Most websites and social networks provide tools for users to report inappropriate and offensive content.

Striking a balance

Spending too much time online is a real concern for parents. It is worth bearing in mind that children use their devices for lots of different reasons – to learn, create, play, and interact with their friends. Every family is different and may face different demands, however setting clear boundaries and rules can be an effective way of managing screen time, and also making sure that you set a good example, and follow those rules too.

Be Kind Online

Discuss the importance of being respectful to others online, and the impact that their behaviour may have on people. Encourage them to consider the other person’s perspective, and how hurtful remarks or actions could make someone feel. 

By fostering empathy, and helping them to understand their own boundaries and level of comfort, it will encourage them to become more responsible and considerate users of the internet.

Apps and Parental Controls

Get to know the apps and websites your child is using and ensure they are age-appropriate. Webwise has developed a comprehensive guide to popular apps and games on their Parents Hub. Use available parental controls to help reduce the risk of your child encountering inappropriate content online, they can be set up on most internet enabled devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets and games consoles.

Parental controls can also be set up through your internet service provider, and in online services such as Netflix and YouTube. For parents of young children it’s important that there is very close supervision of their online activity, and that they are only online when you are with them.

Developing a critical eye

With so much information available online children and teens need to develop critical thinking skills in order to get the best use out of digital technologies. Teaching them to ask questions and to remain sceptical will help them to navigate the wealth of information that is available to them online. By asking questions they will be able to figure out the meaning of the messages they are receiving. 

They will be able to recognise false information, whether information they read is valid or not, whether sources are reliable, and if bias is present.

Discover the internet together

Finally, join in, the internet is a great resource for children! Play your child’s favourite computer game and discover the online world together. Visit the Webwise.ie/Parents Hub for expert online safety advice, explainer guides, talking points and more.

About Webwise

Webwise is the online safety initiative of the Department of Education and co-funded by the European Commission. Webwise promotes safer, better internet use through awareness raising and education initiatives targeting teachers, children, young people and parents. Webwise develops and disseminates resources that help teachers integrate digital citizenship and online safety into teaching and learning in their schools.

Webwise also provides information, advice, and tools to parents to support their engagement in their children’s online lives. Webwise is part of Oide, a new support service for teachers and school leaders, funded from the Department of Education.